Kempenfest: Date: August 1 to 4: at Barrie Waterfront; Cost: Free to enter
Musical Lineup Below
Kempenfest is one of Ontario’s biggest and best waterfront festivals with nearly 500 exhibits.
While the event started in 1971, it didn’t move downtown until 1975. Today, it takes over 2 kms of the Kempenfelt shoreline for 3 days every summer.
One of the major draws for Kempenfest is the art & crafts vendors with over 300 artisans and craftspeople. The market includes handmade wares, products from the kitchen, and innovative new products not yet sold at retail.
The annual antique show, with vendors from across Ontario, is almost as big a draw as the arts & crafts. But at this show the vendors can’t sell reproductions. Only antique, vintage and collectible items are allowed.
Kempenfest also features live music from local bands and top Canadian talent. Saturday and Sunday during the day you can take in free shows at one of two stages. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday night, as well as Monday afternoon, the main stage hosts ticketed shows. This year, Shawn Desman, Colin James, The Washboard Union and more will be playing at the OLG Main Stage.
Another popular draw for Kempenfest is the Kids Village, which offers:
- Live performances at the Kool FM & Rock 95 Community Stage
- Interactive games and activities
- Face painting (for a fee)
- Art stations for kids
- And more
Families can also enjoy fun games and rides on the midway.
Kempenfest 2025 concert lineup: Big names and local faves
Courtesy Barrie360.com
By Marie Gagne
Barrie’s biggest summer celebration is turning up the volume in 2025 with an all-new concert lineup that’s got something for everyone. Whether you’re into country storytelling, high-energy pop, gritty blues, or timeless Canadian rock—the OLG MainStage at Kempenfest is where you’ll want to be this August 1–4.
The recently announced headliners promise an unforgettable soundtrack to your Civic Holiday weekend.
Here’s who’s hitting the stage:
Friday, August 1: Shawn Desman
SHAWN DESMAN with Con The Artist | Puma June | Painted Sky
Presented by RESCON & Kool FM
Canada’s pop prince is bringing the heat to Kempenfest’s Friday night kickoff. Shawn Desman, fresh off his 2024 cross-country tour and riding high from his latest single “Body” (with Jamie Fine), promises a high-energy set you won’t want to miss.
Saturday, August 2: Colin James
COLIN JAMES with Face The Lion | Lyric Dubee | Cudbear | Lifted
Presented by Rock 95
A true Canadian music icon, Colin James brings decades of blues-rock brilliance to the waterfront. Expect an electric night of hits, hooks, and guitar solos that will take you back and leave you wanting more.
“We are thrilled to showcase a fresh concert lineup of touring artists, many of whom have never played Kempenfest before.”Paul Markle, Festival Board Chair
Sunday, August 3: The Washboard Union
THE WASHBOARD UNION with Sully Burrows | Brian John Harwood | Andy Colonico | Tim Ronan
This Platinum-selling country trio brings foot-stomping fun and heartfelt harmonies to long weekend Sunday. Known for their storytelling and singalong-worthy tracks, The Washboard Union is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Monday, August 4: The Practically Hip
THE PRACTICALLY HIP with Cam Brown | Shake Your Money Maker
Presented by Rock 95
There’s no better way to wrap up the weekend than with Canada’s #1 Tragically Hip tribute band. The Practically Hip bring the spirit and sound of Gord Downie & co. back to the Kempenfest stage for a finale that’ll have you waving your arms and belting out “Wheat Kings” with the crowd.
????️ Early-Bird Concert Tickets go on sale Friday, April 25 at 10 AM at kempenfest.com. All concerts are all-ages for General Admission, with a 19+ VIP area available.
???? 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.