Barrie, ON – The Downtown Barrie BIA is excited to announce the supporting opener lineup for the 2026 Troubadour Festival presented by Paul Sadlon Motors, adding even more depth and energy to an already standout summer concert series.

Following the previously announced headliners — The Road Hammers, The Watchmen, and Bahamas — the festival now welcomes three exceptional Canadian acts who will take the stage at 7:30 PM following the Local Opener Showcase (submissions close May 1) at each event.

2026 Troubadour Festival Lineup with Supporting Openers:

Saturday, June 6
Headliner: The Road Hammers
Supporting Opener: Sam Polley & The Old Tomorrows

Saturday, July 25
Headliner: The Watchmen
Supporting Opener: Stuck on Planet Earth

Saturday, August 15
Headliner: Bahamas
Supporting Opener: Zeus

Saturday, September 12
Final Headliner & Supporting Opener: To Be Announced

“Adding these incredible supporting artists strengthens the full concert experience from start to finish,” said Steve Ricalis, Chair of the Downtown Barrie BIA. “Troubadour Festival continues to showcase the depth of Canadian music talent while creating unforgettable nights in the heart of our downtown.”

About the Supporting Openers

SAM POLLEY AND THE OLD TOMORROWS
Formed in downtown Toronto in 2017, Sam Polley and The Old Tomorrows consists of Tally Ferraro on bass, Gianni Ferraro on drums, Fraser Melvin on electric guitar, and Sam Polley on acoustic guitar and vocals. Drawing its sound from 50’s and 60’s rockabilly licks, old country twang, and Motown swing, Sam 

Polley and The Old Tomorrows blends genres to create an upbeat boogie and groovy hooks, that’s sure to make anyone listening get up and dance.

STUCK ON PLANET EARTH
Stuck on Planet Earth is a Canadian alt-rock trio that channels raw energy, moody grooves, and unapologetic honesty into every note. Their sound fuses the grit of ‘90s rock with a soulful modern edge, creating an atmosphere that is both visceral and vulnerable. It’s music for the late-night thinkers, the beautiful wrecks, and anyone who’s ever tried to rebuild themselves from the ground up. The trio has shared stages with Weezer, Finger Eleven, Moist, Big Wreck, Death From Above 1979,  I Mother Earth, and Danko Jones, carving out a reputation as a live force defined by chemistry, catharsis, and sweat-soaked truth.

ZEUS
Toronto-based indie rock group Zeus has built a loyal following with their rich harmonies, classic rock influences, and polished songwriting. Band members Carlin Nicholson and Mike O’Brien were childhood friends in Barrie, playing in their first bands alongside Afie Jurvanen (Bahamas). The band has released several acclaimed albums including Say Us and Busting Visions, earning praise for their musicianship and vintage-inspired sound. Zeus has toured worldwide and continues to stand out as one of the country’s most respected indie rock ensembles. This will be a hometown reunion of sorts, opening for Bahamas.

More to Come

The excitement continues to build as the festival prepares to announce the final headliner and supporting opener for September 12 later this season.

“Each announcement builds on the momentum we’ve seen from the community and across the province,” said Chas Hay, Programming Partner at Hey Bear Productions. “This year’s lineup — from local openers to national headliners — reflects the kind of festival experience people can expect in Downtown Barrie.”

About Troubadour Festival

The Troubadour Festival presented by Paul Sadlon Motors is Downtown Barrie’s signature summer concert series, transforming Meridian Place into a vibrant waterfront music destination. Featuring nationally recognized artists, emerging local talent, and full-day programming, the festival brings together community, culture, and live music in the heart of the city.

LOCAL PARTNERS

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