Kim Mitchell to headline Canada Day celebration for Woodstock’s 125th anniversary

(Contributed Photo)

Lee Griffi, Editor

Canadian rock icon Kim Mitchell will be headlining Canada Day in Woodstock as the City celebrates its 125th anniversary on Wednesday, July 1, at Southside Park.

Known for classic rock anthems including Go For Soda, Rock N Roll Duty and Patio Lanterns, Mitchell has sold more than 1.5 million records in Canada and earned 17 Juno award nominations. The acclaimed singer, songwriter and guitarist was also inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 2021.

“We are thrilled to welcome such a legendary Canadian artist to Woodstock to help celebrate the City’s 125th anniversary. This year’s Canada Day will be our most significant yet, as we mark this major milestone for our community,” said Kristen Brodhagen, Manager of Special Events.

She added bringing in Mitchell, the former frontman for the band Max Webster, was an easy choice.

“When you think of Canadian music, one of the first people that comes to mind is Kim Mitchell. We are thankful to have him join us in what is already a staple event in our community. I think this will really enhance the celebration and be a great way to recognize our 125th anniversary.”

The free event will take place from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. with live music from Northern Strum (an acoustic duo featuring Canadian rock veterans Carl Dixon and Sean Kelly), Always on Friday, Canadiana Band, Geoff Masse Band, The Joel Dupuis Trio and others.

The Canadian Kids Zone will feature fun family activities, including a photobooth, petting zoo, inflatables and more. There will also be limited-edition Woodstock 125 merch for sale, along with food and marketplace vendors, a beverage garden, and free Canada Day-themed cookies.

Mitchell will take the main stage at 8 p.m., followed by a spectacular fireworks show to close out the evening.

Residents and local businesses can get involved in the festivities by becoming a volunteer, sponsor or vendor. Visit www.cityofwoodstock.ca/canadaday for details and to apply.

“Events like this one are large-scale, and with that, it takes the community to come together with the stakeholders that make it successful. We are still accepting sponsors, volunteers and vendors in our marketplace, and food vendors. We encourage people to visit our webpage.”

The planning committee has been working on the event since December of last year.

Brodhagen added Cowapolooza will be a ramped-up event this year as part of the city’s quasquicentennial celebrations. When pressed to at least provide a hint, she wouldn’t tip her hand at the headline act. She did say people won’t be disappointed.

“They are a very well-known Canadian band. We have had a lot of incredible headliners over the years and we will continue that in 2026.”

The announcement for Cowapolooza’s headliner will be made on April 28.

For more information about the City’s 125th anniversary and other opportunities to celebrate throughout the year, visit www.woodstock125.ca.