The Downtown Barrie BIA is proud to announce this year’s exciting Troubadour Festival Summer Concert Series, a four-part celebration of live music and community spirit set to light up Meridian Place this summer!
With a stellar lineup of award-winning Canadian artists and the launch of a new Local Opener Series, this year’s series promises to be bigger, louder, and more inspiring than ever before.
Headlining Performers
Saturday, June 14 – Dean Brody
One of Canada’s most celebrated country music artists, Dean Brody is a 2x JUNO Award winner and has earned 18 Canadian Country Music Awards (CCMAs), including Entertainer of the Year and Male Artist of the Year. Known for hits like “Bring Down the House” and “Canadian Girls,” Brody’s storytelling and dynamic stage presence make him a fan favourite coast to coast.
Saturday, July 26 – The 99s
Rising indie rock stars The 99s are turning heads with their infectious energy and genre-blending sound. Hailing from Toronto, the group has recently been nominated for Breakthrough Group of the Year at the 2024 JUNO Awards and are quickly gaining a national following thanks to their recent EP and powerhouse festival performances.
Saturday, August 16 – Hawksley Workman
A critically acclaimed singer-songwriter, Hawksley Workman is a 2x JUNO Award winner known for his theatrical stage presence and eclectic musical style that fuses rock, pop, and cabaret. With over a dozen albums, hits like “Striptease” and “Jealous of Your Cigarette” have cemented his place as a Canadian music icon.
Saturday, September 6 – Brett Kissel
Closing out the series is Brett Kissel, a platinum-selling country star and 4x JUNO nominee, including Country Album of the Year. With over 22 CCMA Awards, including Male Artist of the Year and Fans' Choice, Kissel brings high-octane performances and a long list of chart-topping hits to his loyal fans across the country. Downtown Barrie BIA//info@downtownbarrie.ca//downtownbarrie.ca//705-734-1414 - 1
Troubadour Festival “Local Opener Series” – Spotlighting Homegrown Talent
New this year, the Local Opener Series will offer a career-shaping opportunity for local youth and house bands to perform as openers for each of the Troubadour Festival main stage headliners. Selected through a local jury process, these emerging artists will take the stage in front of thousands at Meridian Place, gaining invaluable exposure and the chance to perform in a true “rockstar” atmosphere.
Submissions for the Local Opener Series open on May 6, 2025, and close on May 23, 2025. Full details on eligibility and how to apply will be available at www.downtownbarrie.ca.
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Secondary Announcement: 2025 Open Air Dunlop Event Series
Downtown Barrie will also come alive with a full summer of Open Air Dunlop events—signature pedestrian-friendly Saturdays and holiday celebrations designed to bring the community together while showcasing local businesses, culture, and creativity.
2025 Open Air Dunlop Schedule:
● Open Air Dunlop AirShow – June 6–8 A thrilling weekend featuring vintage and modern aircraft displays, flyovers, and aviation-themed family activities.
● Open Air Dunlop Canada Day Celebrations – Tuesday, July 1 Celebrate Canada’s birthday downtown with live music, family zones, and a sea of red and white.
● Open Air Dunlop Butter Tart Festival – Saturday, July 12 A deliciously sweet day with Ontario’s best butter tarts, artisan vendors, and live entertainment.
● Open Air Dunlop Classics In The Park (Cars, Boats & More) – Saturday, July 26 A showcase of classic vehicles, modern watercraft, and recreation vehicles —paired with live music and local eats.
● Open Air Dunlop Eats On The Streets – Saturday, August 16 A culinary crawl through downtown’s food scene, featuring restaurant specials, street food, and licensed patios.