Barrie, ON – Downtown Barrie is revving up for an unforgettable Saturday on July 26, packed with classic cars, live music, and a mighty display of community strength. With Open Air Dunlop returning in full swing, the second annual Classics In The Park car show, the high-energy Troubadour Festival concert series, and a special appearance by World’s Strongest Man, Mitchell Hooper, this is one summer celebration you don’t want to miss.

Newly Announced: Mitchell Hooper Pushes for a Purpose!
Back by popular demand, Canadian strongman sensation, World’s Strongest Man and owner of Longevity Nexum in Downtown Barrie, Mitchell Hooper, will kick off the day at 10:00 AM sharp by pushing a Volkswagen Bus filled with non-perishable food donations for the Barrie Food Bank. Spectators are encouraged to come early, bring a food item to donate, and cheer Mitchell on as he turns raw power into local impact.

Classics In The Park – 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Presented in partnership with Barrie Thunder Classics, this massive car show takes over Dunlop Street, Meridian Place, and Heritage Park with over 500 vehicles on display — from vintage gems to modern marvels and custom builds. New this year is a Boat Display by Maple Leaf Marina, set up beside Meridian Place for an extra splash of summer style.

Expect revving engines, shining chrome, and passionate car enthusiasts filling the downtown core. The show is free and family-friendly — perfect for car lovers of all ages.

Troubadour Festival – Live at Meridian Place | 6:00 PM–10:00 PM

When the sun starts to set, the stage heats up. Troubadour Festival’s Outdoor Music Series brings unforgettable performances lakeside with a mix of rising stars and powerhouse headliners.

6:00 PM – Local Opener Showcase
Three outstanding local acts — Goofus, Sydney Riley + The Bog Bodies, and Dorene — take the spotlight to kick off the evening. These selectees were chosen from an open call and represent some of the region’s best emerging talent.

8:30 PM – Headliner: The 99s
Get ready to sing, dance, and relive the hits! The 99s are an electrifying 8-piece band musically directed by Canadian legends Dwayne Gretzky and fronted by Barrie-native Carleigh Aikins. Their repertoire is packed with anthems from across the decades — from Tina Turner to The Killers, ABBA to Avril Lavigne — promising a show you won’t forget.

“Troubadour Festival is about discovering new voices and celebrating the music we all love,” says Steve Ricalis, Chair of the Downtown Barrie BIA. “We’re proud to support local talent and welcome The 99s for what will be a summer highlight!”

Saturday At-A-Glance:

•  – 10:00 AM – VW Bus Push with Mitchell Hooper for the Barrie Food Bank
•  – 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM – Classics In The Park Car Show
•  – All Day – Open Air Dunlop: Pedestrian-Only Street, Patio Dining, Shops & Pop-Ups
•  – 6:00 PM – Troubadour Festival Local Opener Showcase
•  – 8:30 PM – Headliner: The 99s Live on Stage

Admission is FREE!
Bring a friend, bring the family, and bring a food donation if you can. Let’s show the strength of Barrie’s community spirit — and enjoy one epic Saturday together.

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS:
The Downtown Barrie BIA thanks its sponsors, volunteers, and community supporters for making this event series possible, including:

•  – Bell Media’s CTV Barrie, BOUNCE 104.1 & PURE COUNTRY 106
•  – Meridian Credit Union
•  – City of Barrie
•  – Tourism Barrie
•  – Inside The Music

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