Barrie, ON – The countdown is on!

The Downtown Barrie BIA is thrilled to unveil the complete schedule for the 2026 Troubadour Festival Kick Off, presented by Paul Sadlon Motors Inc., taking over Downtown Barrie and Meridian Place on Saturday, June 6 with a full day of FREE entertainment, live music, family activities, food, and community celebration.

From internationally recognized children’s entertainers and emerging country stars to hometown talent and one of Canada’s most celebrated country rock bands, the Troubadour Festival Kick Off promises something for every member of the family—all completely free to attend.

“This is exactly what the Troubadour Festival is all about,” said Downtown Barrie BIA Executive Director, Craig Stevens. “Creating opportunities for people of all ages to come together, experience incredible live entertainment, support local businesses, and celebrate everything that makes our community special. Whether you’re bringing the kids, meeting friends downtown, or coming for the music, we’ve built a day that everyone can enjoy.”

THE TROUBADOUR TREEHOUSE: A FAMILY DESTINATION KICKS OFF AT NOON!

Families will want to arrive early for the debut of the Troubadour Treehouse, a dedicated family entertainment zone located around the Troubadour Street Stage on Dunlop Street.

Headlining the Treehouse experience are global children’s entertainment sensations Caitie & Tobee, whose combined audience of more than 43 million YouTube subscribers has made them beloved figures in households around the world. Known for their infectious energy, educational content, singalongs, storytelling, and engaging personalities, Caitie & Tobee have become a daily fixture for millions of children and families.

Their appearance in Downtown Barrie offers local families a rare opportunity to experience the duo live and in person.

Fans looking for an even more memorable experience can purchase tickets to an exclusive Meet & Greet experience, which includes:

• An opportunity to meet Caitie & Tobee in person
• An individual photo opportunity
• A special interactive experience with the performers

Meet & Greet tickets are available for $65 per person at:
https://www.showpass.com/caitietobee/

The Treehouse will also feature a children’s book reading, arts and crafts activities, and FREE inflatables throughout the day, creating a vibrant destination for families to enjoy together.

TROUBADOUR STREET STAGE SHOWCASES RISING TALENT!

The music begins early on the Troubadour Street Stage, featuring performances by two emerging artists at 1:15 PM and 2:15 PM before welcoming one of country music’s fastest-rising young stars.

1:15pm – 2:00pm: Nicole Bellmore 

2:15pm – 3:00pm: tbd

3:15pm – 4:00pm: Paige Rutledge  – with more than one million streams, Top 10 SiriusXM chart success, and recognition as an Artist to Watch by multiple radio stations and industry tastemakers, Rutledge has quickly established herself as one of Canada’s most exciting emerging country artists. Her music has earned support from Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, SiriusXM, and major country radio stations across Ontario.

THE PARTY BUILDS IN MERIDIAN PLACE ON THE TROUBADOUR MAIN STAGE!

As the afternoon transitions into evening, Meridian Place will come alive as LiftiD takes over the Troubadour Main Stage, creating the perfect soundtrack while festival-goers gather for an unforgettable night of entertainment.

The festival’s popular Local Opener Showcase returns after a hugely successful debut.  This showcase provides some of the best up and coming artists from across Ontario the opportunity to perform in front of thousands of music fans on a major festival stage.

This year’s showcase lineup features:

5:00 PM – Kendra Gabriel

5:45 PM – Mackinna Givens

6:30 PM – Jammers Waffle House

Together, these talented artists represent the next generation of local music talent and embody the spirit of community that has become synonymous with the Troubadour Festival.

SAM POLLEY AND THE OLD TOMORROWS SET THE STAGE!

At 7:30 PM, acclaimed Canadian roots-rock artist Sam Polley and The Old Tomorrows take the Main Stage.

Known for their authentic storytelling, powerful musicianship, and energetic live performances, the band has built a devoted following across Canada. Their blend of Americana, roots rock, and modern country influences makes them the perfect lead-in to the evening’s headline performance.

THE ROAD HAMMERS CLOSE OUT AN INCREDIBLE DAY!

At 8:30 PM, the moment fans have been waiting for arrives as The Road Hammers take the Meridian Place stage.

One of Canada’s most successful country-rock bands, The Road Hammers have earned multiple CCMA Awards, chart-topping hits, and a reputation as one of the country’s most electrifying live acts. Their high-octane blend of country, rock, and blue-collar anthems has made them festival favourites from coast to coast.

As the sun sets over Downtown Barrie, The Road Hammers will deliver the grand finale to what promises to be an extraordinary day of music, community, and celebration.

A FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE FOR EVERYONE!

Beyond the entertainment lineup, attendees can enjoy a full festival experience throughout the day, including:

• A giant LED viewing screen
• Festival bleacher seating
• A full-service beer garden in Meridian Place opening at 2:00 PM
• Local food trucks
• Exceptional dining and patio experiences throughout Downtown Barrie
• NEW! TROUBADOUR AFTER HOURS: Experience live local music after the main stage at your favorite Downtown entertainment spot! Check local listings for performances.

With activities for children, performances for music lovers, and experiences for every age group, the Troubadour Festival Kick Off has become one of the region’s premier summer celebrations.

Most importantly, every performance and activity throughout the day is FREE for the community to enjoy.

SUPPORTING PARTNERS

PAUL SADLON MOTORS | Downtown Barrie BIA | CTV News Barrie | PURE COUNTRY 106 | BOUNCE 104.1 | Hey Bear Productions | Lemmon Entertainment | City of Barrie | Tourism Barrie | Province of Ontario