Are you looking for a local event that’s fun for the whole family? Look no further. Stratford Live Music and Food is what you’re after.
This three-day event (formerly Stratford Blues and Ribfest) at the historic bandshell June 16 to 18 really does have something for everyone.
“In 2021, the committee rebranded to reflect the true essence of the festival,” explained committee member Carrie Clark. “The entertainment was already expanding into multi genres, and we wanted to offer a wider variety of food. It’s an event for all to enjoy and have fun.”
“The committee worked diligently to bring a wide variety of food choices to the event this year. York Street parking lot will cover all your cravings with many food trucks, including the traditional rib trucks. From there, a short walk to the event's gate, is the vendors alley with so many other vendors and artisans who will be selling unique craft and other specialized merchandise,” said Clark.
“The festival is successful due to our loyal patrons and the support of local businesses, partners in our community, and grants. We are a Not-For-Profit event organized by a volunteer committee. The volunteers perform a very vital role in the success of the event, with their time donated in so many capacities,” Clark explained.
The music lineup is also diverse and appealing. Over 20 different bands are featured over the course of the weekend, Friday from 4 to 11 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
“The 2023 line up is stellar with many talented musicians. With so many incredible musicians the list was difficult to narrow down to the selected, with the headliners: Bill Durst, Romeo Sex Fighter, MonkeyJunk and Forever Seger.
Sunday is a “We LOVE Stratford” line up featuring Eric Mahar with Hidden Stratford Gems and many other local musicians in the lineup throughout the festival!” enthused Clark.
This is the second year the festival is proud to honor a founding member with the Stew Laing Youth Band Foundation. Thanks to community donations, Saturday’s line up starts with Max Morgado & The Hoerdt Brothers, Evie & The Tools, and the Johnny Ballard Band. Be sure to come out to support the next generation of artistic talent. The bandshell provides an intimate outdoor musical experience for the entire family; a place to meet friends or make new ones, while listening to amazing music with a huge dance floor!
This year the “Kids Zone” is located just outside the gated area. Stratford Library and Splatz Art (sponsored by Arden Park Dental) will be there to entertain the children with crafts, stories, facepainting and balloon art. The festival is thankful to the surrounding restaurants and businesses in the downtown area who welcome and support the event in their neighbourhood.
Stratford Live Music and Food takes place June 16 to 18 at The Bandshell, Veteran’s Drive, Stratford. Admission to the stage and licensed area is just $10 per person per day, with children 12 and under free. Bring the family and have a wonderful weekend. For more information, visit them online.