Fifty years ago, The Band took their final bow, the CN Tower rose to the world’s tallest freestanding structure, and a small group of freewheelers in the Ottawa Valley planted the seeds of a festival that continues to blossom. The Killaloe Craft and Community Fair turns fifty this summer. What began in 1976 as a gathering of idealists and back-to-the-landers has continued to rise each August, shaped by new hands and new generations.
The 50th anniversary runs from August 7–9 and kicks off with a powerful Friday night. Kobo Town headlines the main stage with their internationally acclaimed blend of calypso, dub and storytelling. Their music is rhythmic, political, joyful and deeply human, and will fill the Killaloe hillside with good vibes. They are joined by Blakdenim, the Ottawa collective known for high-energy performances that mix hip hop, funk and brass. Toronto’s Jay NuFunk will close the stage with a deejay set.
Saturday brings another full day of music. My Son the Hurricane, the twelve-piece brass and percussion ensemble, delivers the kind of joyful intensity that has made them a festival favourite across Canada. Amanita, fronted by multi-instrumentalist Sam Heineman, adds a warm, soulful set after the legendary team of Reverend Ken and Washboard Hank offer up a unique performance. Ottawa deejay and producer Rise Ashen will play a closing set. The Day Stage will have performances all weekend long showcasing local talent, and the deejay tent keeps the party going until late on both nights.
The weekend is filled with activities that reflect the Fair’s creative roots. Visitors can take part in more than 25 workshops over the weekend including painting, dance, drumming, astrology, forest walks, breathwork and more. The children’s parade returns with its familiar mix of costumes, homemade props and delighted chaos. Russel Sprout brings his signature blend of music, mischief and gentle mayhem to the kids’ area, adding a burst of comic energy that always lands. Games and family activities run throughout the day, and food vendors offer everything from comfort classics to fresh local dishes. Craft stalls and artisan booths line the forest with pottery, textiles, jewellery, glass and one-of-a-kind creations.
Advanced tickets are available now. Friday passes are $40, Saturday passes are $55, and weekend passes are $80. A Guardian weekend pass allows one adult to bring up to three teens aged 13 to 16 for $160. Student and senior discounts apply to full-day and weekend passes and kids 12 and under get in free. Sunday remains a no-charge day for everyone. Tickets can be purchased at Killaloefair.ca and advanced sales end on July 24, after which prices go up at the gate.
Fifty years on, the Killaloe Craft and Community Fair returns each summer with a steady spirit. It has grown and adapted, yet it remains rooted in the simple idea of community that brought people together in the first place. The magic keeps finding its way back.