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The Georgian Bay Folk Society invites the community to Coming Home: Celebrating 50 Years of Summerfolk—a very special homecoming concert on Thursday, August 14 at Kelso Beach, Nawash Park in Owen Sound. This by-donation, all-ages show kicks off the 50th anniversary weekend of the beloved Summerfolk Music and Crafts Festival.
“We’re calling it Coming Home because that’s exactly what this night is all about—celebrating the roots of Summerfolk and the people who’ve made it what it is,” says the Georgian Bay Folk Society.
This free Thursday evening celebration will raise awareness and excitement heading into the full festival weekend. With a strong focus on community, Coming Home brings together Summerfolk alumni and rising local voices to celebrate five decades of music, storytelling, and shared memories.
Here is the lineup:
BLACKBURN BROTHERS
Amber May • Coco Love Alcorn • david sereda • JD Crosstown * Kailey Jane Hawkins • Larry Jensen • Paige Warner • Rob Elder • RPR • Samantha Martin • Tim Harrison • Grey Road 1 • The Hummingbyrds • Bobby Dean Blackburn
Backed by the Summerfolk House Band:
Jesse Corrigan • John Hume • Ken Kelley • Mark Mariash • Trevor MacKenzie
EVENT DETAILS:
Thursday, August 14
Gates: 6:00 PM | Show: 7:00–10:15 PM
Down by the Bay Stage at Kelso Beach, Nawash Park in Owen Sound
Admission: by donation – all are welcomeFood and craft vendors will also be on site, adding flavour and creativity to the evening. From local eats to handmade artisan goods, there will be something for everyone to enjoy between sets. A full list of Thursday night vendors will be announced in August.
Coming Home is designed to welcome both longtime festival goers and new audiences, reinforcing Summerfolk’s deep connection to the Owen Sound region. The event will showcase the rich musical talent of Grey Bruce and beyond, highlighting the festival’s commitment to supporting artists from across generations.
“We wanted to start the weekend by celebrating the people and the place that shaped Summerfolk,” said the Georgian Bay Folk Society. “This show is a heartfelt thank you to the community that’s kept this festival thriving for 50 years.”
Whether you’re reconnecting with festival friends or discovering Summerfolk for the first time, Coming Home is your invitation to be part of the magic.
About Summerfolk
Presented by the Georgian Bay Folk Society, Summerfolk is a community-powered, volunteer-driven festival that blends world-class performance with grassroots spirit. Taking place August 15–17, 2025 on the shores of Georgian Bay in Owen Sound, the 50th anniversary festival features multiple stages, artisan markets, hands-on workshops, and family-friendly programming—all with a mission to foster community through folk music and the arts. Follow us @summerfolk online or visit summerfolk.org