HipFest
HipFest returns to the Harmony Square stage on Saturday, August 15, 2026, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. to celebrate the music and legacy of The Tragically Hip. Attendees are invited to bring a lawn chair and enjoy an evening of live music from our show’s opener Backburner and our headliners The Hip Experience, with local artisans and food vendors. This event is proudly sponsored by West Brant Window World.
About the performing artists
Backburner is a fusion band, made up of Canadian Roots Blues Rock, Soul and Blues. The members have been singing, performing, and playing together throughout their entire musical careers. An original and cover rock band focusing on improvisational live performances and enhancing musical creativity from the Brantford, Ontario area, they share their unique brand of rock all over South-Western Ontario - breweries, restaurants, pubs, festivals, coffee houses, private parties and more! Backburner is in the middle of recording their first album of original music in Oshweken/Six Nations, Ontario.
The Hip Experience is Canada’s ultimate tribute to The Tragically Hip. The Hip Experience is dedicated to faithfully recreating the live sound and energy of The Tragically Hip. Renowned for their meticulous attention to detail, The Hip Experience delivers note-for-note renditions of hits from every album in The Tragically Hip's catalog, capturing the essence of the original performances while connecting with audiences through their own dynamic stage presence. With a growing national following, the band has performed across Canada at festivals, theatres, and private events, earning a reputation for high-energy, authentic shows that celebrate the legacy of one of Canada's most beloved rock bands. Their commitment to excellence and passion for music continues to captivate both longtime fans and new listeners alike.
HipFest Marketplace
Support local at the on-site marketplace where a variety of vendors and artisans will be selling a variety of goodies. Delicious food and non-alcoholic beverages will also be available to purchase throughout the evening. Also get a wonderful photo souvenir in the photo booth.
Marketplace vendor application form coming soon. Subscribe to this page for updates.
Getting there
Free parking is available on Saturday, August 15, 2026, in the Municipal Parkade located at 59 Icomm Drive. Brantford Transit is also available to attendees looking for transportation to Harmony Square with the main terminal conveniently located only one block away. You can find schedules, routes and rates online at www.Brantford.ca/Transit. For attendees looking for accessible transportation, Brantford Lift can be booked up to 30-days in advance up to 9:30 p.m. on Friday, August 14, 2026.
Construction is now underway on Phase 1 of the Downtown Revitalization Project, with crews replacing aging underground water, sewer, and utility infrastructure. Construction details can be found at www.Brantford.ca/DowntownDetours. Detour routes will be signed to accommodate vehicular traffic.
Find a full listing of community events at calendar.brantford.ca/HarmonySquare.
Sponsor Opportunity
There are several ways for your business or organization to get involved and be a part of HipFest. Please consider supporting this event by filling out the online application below. For questions, please email harmonysquare@brantford.ca or call 519-759-4150 ext. 5074.
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