It is official: Kempenfest 2026 is again bringing four days of major Canadian talent to Barrie’s waterfront this summer.
Presented by TD, Kempenfest runs July 31 through August 3, with headline concerts lighting up the OLG MainStage, powered by Osborne Goddard Team.
From pop to rock to country, this year’s lineup has something for everyone. Here’s what you can expect.
Here’s who’s hitting the stage:
Friday, July 31: Kool FM Presents Jamie Fine
107.5 Kool FM presents Jamie Fine to kick off the long weekend.
Fine has become one of Canada’s most recognizable pop voices, known for emotional ballads and radio-ready anthems. Her Friday night performance is expected to draw a strong crowd to the waterfront.
Special guests include:
- Nicole Haber
- Sydney Riley of Wasaga Beach
- Madison Mueller of Barrie
It is a night that blends national talent with strong local representation.
Saturday, August 1: Rock 95 Presents Big Wreck
Saturday night turns up the volume.
Rock 95 presents Big Wreck live on the OLG MainStage. Known for powerful vocals and unforgettable guitar work, Big Wreck remains one of Canada’s most respected rock acts.
Joining them on stage:
- Grant Boyer
- Mirrage
- Nick Marinac
- Feura, the Gussapolooza Home Grown Battle of the Band winner
- Additional guests to be announced
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Sunday, August 2: High Valley Headlines Country Night
Country fans will want to circle Sunday.
High Valley takes the stage August 2, bringing their signature harmonies and upbeat country sound to Kempenfest.
With multiple chart-topping hits and an energetic live show, High Valley is expected to bring in fans from across Simcoe County and beyond.
Special guests include:
- Elyse Saunders
- Bree Taylor
- Graham Trude
- Tyler Lorette
- Badland
- The Bareback Riders
It promises to be a full evening of country music on the waterfront.
Monday, August 3: Rock 95 Presents Practically Hip
The long weekend wraps up with a tribute to one of Canada’s most iconic bands.
Rock 95 presents Practically Hip on Monday night. Widely known for faithfully performing the music of The Tragically Hip, Practically Hip delivers the classics that generations of Canadians know by heart.
Opening the show:
- Gabe Salem
- 93 North Band
🎨 More Than Music
Celebrating its 53rd year, Kempenfest isn’t just about the tunes. With 300+ arts & crafts vendors, a massive midway, antique alley, buskers, face painting, a poutine village, and two stages of live entertainment—all stretched across two kilometers of beautiful Barrie waterfront—this is a weekend to explore, taste, dance, and enjoy.
Last year saw over 100,000 attendees, and 2025 is shaping up to be even bigger.
So bring your friends, your family, and your lawn chair ... Kempenfest 2025 is going to be one for the books.
