Kempenfest is one of those events that needs no introduction in Barrie. Every summer, the waterfront comes alive with artisans, food, live music, and the kind of community energy that reminds you why this city is worth showing up for. This year was no different. The Rotary Club of Barrie was back at the Beer Garden, and the weekend was amazing.
This year’s festival featured approximately 300 artisans and was expected to generate between $9 and $11 million in local economic activity. A new free shuttle service was introduced to ease parking along the waterfront, running from Park Place through the downtown and festival areas. Drink tickets remained at $10, and debit machines were available for the first time to reduce the amount of cash being handled.
None of it runs without people. Paul Markle led the charge on operations, and the volunteers who showed up, worked their shifts, and kept the Beer Garden running smoothly deserve every bit of the applause they received back at the Club. Thank you to everyone who made Kempenfest 2026 another one to remember. See you on the bay next year.
