Ingersoll’s second annual Good for the Soll music festival draws over 4,000 attendees

Local punk band “Miss Conduct” opens the  2nd annual music fest. (Kyrah Smith photo)

Kyrah Smith, Echo Correspondent

On Saturday, August 23rd, Ingersoll’s Memorial Park was packed with enthusiastic festivalgoers as Good for the Soll returned for its second year.

With ideal weather and a strong sense of community in the air, over 4,000 people showed up to enjoy a night of live music, local food, and hometown pride. Fans could be seen proudly sporting band tees and merch, ready to cheer on this year’s incredible lineup.

The free event started at 5 p.m. and wrapped up just after 11 p.m., featuring food trucks and vendors from across Oxford County. Festival founder Jay Panaseiko and his team were front and centre, welcoming guests and introducing each act.

“Of course, kicking it off we got Miss Conduct, One Way Streets, Charlie Edward, and then at 9:45, we have a legend. You are all in for an absolute treat,” Panaseiko and team announced early in the evening.

One surprise of the night was a special performance from the Ingersoll Pipe Band, celebrating their 115th anniversary. First up was local punk band Miss Conduct, who brought high energy and attitude with original tracks like “It’s My Life” and “Upper Hand.” The female-driven group delivered an electrifying show full of raw energy and passion.

Between sets, Panaseiko was presented with an award by Oxford MP Arpan Khanna for his hard work and dedication. This year’s festival was also dedicated to Jay’s late father, Nick Panaseiko.

“I’m just glad you’re all here having a good time,” said Panaseiko. “That’s what this was supposed to be about, good for the soul. That’s Ingersoll’s soul. We want to be a community together under the stars. And Dad, I hope this makes you proud.”

Panaseiko also teased ideas already in the works for next year’s festival and expressed deep gratitude to staff, sponsors, and attendees for making the event possible. At 7:20 p.m., returning favourites One Way Streets hit the stage. The teenage alt-rockers from Ingersoll performed mostly original music, including a preview of a new unreleased track. Their powerful cover of “Use Somebody” earned them an enthusiastic encore.

As the sun dipped, the crowd welcomed London-born rock artist Charlie Edward. His performance included “Are You Happy Now?”, co-written with Canadian rock band Finger Eleven, and a fiery cover of “War Pigs” as a tribute to late Ozzy Osbourne. His charisma and stage presence kept the energy sky-high. Finally, closing out the night was the one and only Sass Jordan. Opening with “Damage,” she delivered a powerhouse set, including fan favourites like “If You’re Gonna Love Me” and “Make You a Believer.” The crowd wasn’t ready to say goodbye, and after loud cheers for more, Jordan returned for an unforgettable encore. The 2nd annual Good for the Soll was a huge success. A night full of heart, music, and community spirit. It’s safe to say this festival has become a highlight of the summer in Ingersoll.