Summer in Barrie & the region is all about sunshine, waterfront views, and live music under open skies. From free downtown shows to multi-day mega festivals, the region is packed with events that will keep your calendar full and your playlist refreshed. Whether you're into country, indie, pop-punk, or classic rock, here are the top outdoor concerts you won’t want to miss in Barrie and the surrounding area this summer.
Troubadour Festival Summer Concert Series
Location: Meridian Place, Downtown Barrie
Dates: June to September 2025
Admission: Free
This annual concert series is a local favourite for a reason: it brings some of Canada’s best musical talent to the heart of downtown Barrie—free of charge. With a lakeside setting, vendor market, licensed area, and a community feel, the Troubadour Festival Summer Series is one of the most accessible and entertaining music experiences in the city. New for 2025 is a Local Opener Series, giving emerging regional acts the spotlight before each headliner. Learn more.
Headliners:
- Dean Brody – June 14
One of Canada’s most celebrated country artists, Dean Brody has racked up 34 Top 10 singles, 8 #1s, and over 425 million global streams. Known for hits like “Canadian Girls” and “Bring Down the House,” Brody will kick off the series with an electric night of anthemic, feel-good country. - The 99s – July 26
A high-energy 8-piece cover supergroup fronted by Barrie’s own Carleigh Aikins (Bahamas, Macy Gray), The 99s deliver unforgettable mashups and medleys of pop and rock favourites from the '70s to today. Expect everything from Fleetwood Mac to The Killers—all with incredible vocal harmonies and big-stage charisma. - Hawksley Workman – August 16
Known for his theatrical flair and genre-blending sound, Hawksley Workman is a multiple JUNO winner with over 20 albums to his name. With hits like “Striptease” and “We Will Still Need a Song,” his performance promises to be both musically rich and emotionally charged. - Brett Kissel – September 6
Closing the series is country sensation Brett Kissel, who boasts 23 Canadian Country Music Awards, 3 JUNOs, and numerous Gold and Platinum-certified hits. With his polished sound and crowd-pleasing stage presence, he’s set to deliver a show-stopping finale to the summer series.
All Your Friends Fest
Location: Burl’s Creek Event Grounds, Oro-Medonte
Dates: June 28–29, 2025
Tickets: Available via Front Gate Tickets
- Avril Lavigne – Canada’s original pop-punk queen returns to the stage with hits like “Sk8er Boi,” “Complicated,” and “Girlfriend."
- Rise Against – Known for their hard-hitting anthems and politically charged lyrics, this Chicago band brings both power and purpose.
- Simple Plan, Underoath, Silverstein, and The All-American Rejects round out a stacked lineup that celebrates the best of 2000s alt-rock and emo.
With on-site camping, multiple stages, and immersive festival experiences, this is a must-attend for anyone looking to relive their rebellious youth.
Kempenfest 2025
Main Stage Highlights:
- Friday, August 1 – Shawn Desman
The R&B-pop crooner kicks off the weekend with danceable hits and smooth vocals, bringing early-2000s nostalgia with a modern twist. - Saturday, August 2 – Colin James
With a career spanning three decades, this Canadian blues-rock icon delivers a tight, soulful set with crowd favourites like “Just Came Back” and “Five Long Years.” - Sunday, August 3 – The Washboard Union
A triple Canadian Country Music Award-winning group known for their harmonies and high-energy performances. A night tailor-made for dancing barefoot in the grass. - Monday, August 4 – Practically Hip
A tribute to The Tragically Hip that delivers both reverence and energy. Expect all the classics from one of Canada’s most beloved bands.
In addition to live music, Kempenfest features a midway, Kids Village, and over 300 vendor booths showcasing art, crafts, and local food.
Boots and Hearts Music Festival
2025 Headliners & Featured Acts:
- Bailey Zimmerman – With his breakout single “Fall in Love” and a growing list of Billboard hits, Zimmerman is country’s hottest rising star.
- Sam Hunt – A genre-bending artist known for blending R&B and country with tracks like “Body Like a Back Road” and “23.”
- HARDY – A high-octane performer with a knack for fusing rock and country, best known for hits like “Truck Bed” and “Give Heaven Some Hell.”
- Tyler Hubbard – One half of Florida Georgia Line, now thriving as a solo artist with his smooth Southern vocals and radio-ready hooks.
- Chase Rice, Koe Wetzel, Megan Moroney, Kameron Marlowe, and many more round out the lineup, offering something for every country fan—from honky-tonk to heartland rock.
- Campground party stages and late-night DJ sets
- On-site food vendors, drink gardens, and merchandise booths
- VIP upgrades with shaded lounges and premium viewing areas
