Music, food, friends highlight holiday festival

Hannah Dolson performs on the side stage.

Alex Hunt 

Advocate Correspondent

Over 40 performers, including Norfolk’s Juno-nominated singer-songwriter Benjamin Dakota Rogers, hit the stage at this year’s Simcoe Heritage Friendship Festival, August 1-4.

The festival featured four days of free fun, food trucks, vendors and live entertainment for all ages.

“Our mission with the Simcoe Heritage Friendship Festival is to make this all about Norfolk and give back to the community,” said Sara Moody Veldhuis, artistic director at the Simcoe Heritage Friendship Festival. “It is really important for us to bring everyone this family friendly festival; it’s a tradition that’s been in existence since 1967.”

This year’s festival also featured a car show, allowing guests to experience a range of automobiles with a vintage touch. Proceeds were donated to local community charities.

“It’s up to us to provide a fun festival that everyone can enjoy and provide an opportunity for local clubs and organizations to use the event as their fundraising platform,” said Veldhuis. “For a lot of organizations, the festival is their main source of fundraising for the entire year.” 

A variety of musical artists capture just about every genre of music, ranging from rock, gospel, and country, along with a host of local talent. Featured bands and artists included, The Felicia McMinn Band, The Jesse Murphy Band, The Ryerse Jazz Singers in Concert, James N. Wilson, and many more.

There was a variety of activities to enjoy on the Civic Holiday weekend such as a free Zumba demo, Kids Zone karaoke, and a viewing of the Wonka movie.

"We try to make sure we have something for everyone, and we make sure we have all types of music on our stages,” said Veldhuis. “In the economy that we’re in, providing this opportunity for people is so important and really embodies what the festival is about.” 

The Simcoe Heritage Friendship festival continues to be a cherished summer tradition, offering something for everyone, ensuring fun, culture, and community spirit remain at the heart of Norfolk County.