The annual Kempenfest waterfront festival is set to return to Barrie this summer, marking its 54th year of music, arts, and community celebration from July 31 to August 3, 2026.
Presented by TD, the four-day event spans 1.5 kilometres along the shores of Kempenfelt Bay. Since its inception in 1971, when a small group of artists from the Barrie Art Club displayed their work on snow fencing, the festival has grown into a major regional attraction. It now draws over 100,000 visitors annually and generates an estimated $9.5 million in tourism-related economic impact for the city.
The event is organized by eight local service clubs, including the Kiwanis Club of Barrie and the Rotary Club of Barrie, who work together to support community initiatives. Through their combined efforts, these organizations typically raise more than $250,000 each year to fund local programs. To help run the festivities, organizers are currently seeking members for the KempenCrew, a volunteer group that requires over 700 people to support event operations.
Visitors can expect a variety of activities, including approximately 300 jury-selected arts and crafts vendors, 30 food vendors, and 30 antique dealers. Families can take advantage of the Kids Village, which features interactive games and face painting, or watch the annual 2,000-metre swim across Kempenfelt Bay. Entertainment is provided across three stages, with more than 75 live performances scheduled throughout the weekend.
The musical lineup at the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation MainStage features Jamie Fine on Friday, Big Wreck on Saturday, High Valley on Sunday, and the Practically Hip on Monday. Local artisans interested in participating as vendors are encouraged to submit applications through the Huronia Festival of Arts and Crafts, a joint venture of the Barrie Art Club and the Kiwanis Club.
Recognized as one of the top 100 festivals and events in the province by Festivals and Events Ontario, the celebration continues to receive support from the City of Barrie to provide residents and visitors with a significant summer experience.
