Harbourfest: 30 Years of Rocking Kenora’s Summers
If you’re from around Northwestern Ontario, you’ve probably heard of Harbourfest Kenora. It’s the biggest music festival in the area and has been happening in Kenora every August long weekend for the last 30 years. It’s run by volunteers and the whole community gets involved. People come from all over to enjoy the music, food, and fun. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or marking it on your Kenora events calendar each year, it’s the summer event that can’t be missed.
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What Makes Harbourfest Special
Imagine this: Tons of people hanging out by the beautiful Lake of the Woods, listening to amazing live music. There’s delicious food, classic cars, and lots of fun activities. It’s like a giant summer party where everyone’s having a great time.
But Harbourfest is more than just a music festival. It’s a way for the community to come together and show what makes Kenora Ontario special. Lots of volunteers work really hard to make it happen, and local businesses like Piston Ring and McMunn and Yates Kenora chip in to help out. Without all these people, Kenora Harbourfest wouldn’t be possible.
🎸 Lineup Over the Years
| Year | Year |
|---|---|
| 2017 | Primetime, Hedley, Mike Procyshyn & Lonesome Boxcar, The Road Hammers, Blackjack Billy, Toque, Platinum Blonde |
| 2018 | Serena Ryder, Three Days Grace |
| 2019 | Coleman Hell, Grandson, Sass Jordan, Harlequin |
| 2022 | Bret Michaels, Doc Walker, Dallas Smith |
| 2023 | Default, Coleman Hell (Shake the Lake) |
Harbourfest Through the Years
Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and relive some of the most memorable moments from Harbourfest’s history.
2017: Weekend to Remember
Harbourfest 2017 was a standout year. It lasted for three whole days, featuring Primetime and Hedley – and everyone loved singing along to their hits. The energy was unmatched when Hedley music took over the stage. Local artists like Mike Procyshyn & Lonesome Boxcar, along with country favorites The Road Hammers and Blackjack Billy, made sure the crowd stayed entertained. Toque and the legendary Platinum Blonde wrapped up the weekend. The food was amazing, with plenty of local vendors, and during the day, kids enjoyed all sorts of activities. And for those who were wondering how long is a Hedley concert, the band played for a solid 90 minutes, leaving the audience wanting more. The fireworks Harbourfront 2017 display was the cherry on top, lighting up the Kenora sky in a spectacular finale.
2018: Bigger and Better
In 2018, the festival was trimmed to two nights of performances, but it didn’t disappoint. The stage welcomed some of the biggest names in Canadian music, including Serena Ryder and Three Days Grace. Serena Ryder’s voice left the crowd in awe, while Three Days Grace amped up the energy, delivering a rock show to remember. The festival organizers also increased community involvement, adding even more interactive family entertainment. Harbour festival was evolving, and the changes were met with enthusiasm by the crowds.
2019: Raising the Bar
Harbourfest 2019 saw the introduction of a VIP section, giving fans a chance to be up close and personal with the performers. The Family Fest area was expanded, with fun additions like bouncy castles, carnival games, and educational displays. The music lineup featured standout performances by Coleman Hell, Grandson, Sass Jordan, and Harlequin. The mix of genres offered something for everyone. From Coleman Hell’s catchy beats to Harlequin’s nostalgic tunes, the festival was a massive hit. The 2019 edition of Kenora Harbourfest really set a high standard, combining great music, family fun, and community spirit.
2020 and 2021: The Pandemic Pause
The pandemic forced the cancellation of Harbourfest in 2020 and 2021, marking a difficult time for the festival and the Kenora community. The absence of the festival left a noticeable gap in the Kenora events calendar, as Kenora Canada Day and other festivities were scaled back as well. The event’s volunteer committee, which includes local supporters like Donny B Kenora, kept in touch with ticket holders, assuring them that their passes would be valid for future editions.
2022: The Comeback Kid
After two years of uncertainty, Harbourfest made a triumphant return in 2022. The excitement was electric, with big names like Bret Michaels, Doc Walker, and Dallas Smith leading the charge. The festival organizers took special care to follow health guidelines, ensuring everyone could enjoy the event safely. The return of live music was a welcome relief, and the Kenora fireworks over the lake capped off the weekend perfectly. Harbourfest was back, and Kenora was once again buzzing with music and joy.
2023: New Chapter with Shake the Lake
By 2023, Harbourfest had reached its 30-year mark, but the organizers faced increasing challenges in finding enough volunteers to keep the event going. After much deliberation, they decided to transition into a new event – Shake the Lake. It was a tough call, but necessary for the festival’s sustainability. The new event, held at the Jarnel Contracting Kenora venue, featured performances from Default and Coleman Hell. While the name may have changed, Shake the Lake still carried the same spirit, bringing the community together for a celebration of music.
🎟️ Tickets
Ticket prices over the years have varied, but a rough guide is:
- $100 for a weekend pass
- $50-75 for a single-day ticket
To stay updated, be sure to follow Kenora events listings online or check the official Harbourfest website for the latest info.
🦺 Staying Safe at the Festival
Here are some quick tips to help you enjoy the festival safely:
- Medical Help: If you need assistance, look for the designated medical areas marked by red balloons. In an emergency, seek help from staff or security.
- Security: Security guards are always present to keep everyone safe. Be prepared for bag checks at entrances, especially near the Whitecap Pavilion.
- No Drugs: Harbourfest is a drug-free event. If you notice anyone in distress, don’t hesitate to get medical help immediately.
Why Harbourfest Matters
For three decades, Harbourfest wasn’t just another festival – it was part of what makes Kenora Ontario a special place. Each year, people would flock to the shores of Lake of the Woods to celebrate music, community, and summer fun. Even through challenging times like the pandemic, the festival’s spirit endured. And now, with Shake the Lake, a new chapter has begun. Kenora will keep on rocking – whether through Harbourfest Kenora or its successor, Shake the Lake. The festival may have evolved, but the community, the joy, and the music will always be the heart and soul of these unforgettable summer weekends.