Forge Fest 2024 is getting back to its roots Saturday, July 27 in Tillsonburg.
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The 25-band and music artist lineup features several local Oxford and Norfolk County performers.
“It has more of a local angle,” said organizer Ben Andress, who remembers starting Forge Fest in 2018. “We’re trying to get it back to its roots a little bit. It’s nice to iron out the lineup with more Norfolk and Oxford acts. Last year was fun – and this year should be just as fun.”
Unique in Tillsonburg, the music festival is held at five local venues – The Mill Inn & Eatery, Paddy’s Underground Gastropub, The Copper Mug, Birds Golf Lounge, and the Station Arts Centre, each with its own vibe and sound experience.
Forge Fest wristbands ($20) are available on eventbrite, and at any of the five venues. Festival proceeds, after covering expenses, go to the Canadian Mental Health Association – Oxford. Nearly $6,000 was donated in the festival’s first two years.
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It’s great value, said Andress, excited for a lineup that includes Billy Gibbons, Medve, Ethan Wall, Bad River, Pro Wrestling The Band, The Lexington Cure, Leanne Mayer, Steve, Jon Givens, Destined for the Throne, Ian BW, Miss Conduct, The McBains, Bad Words, .
“There’s a band from London, a band from Toronto, a hip hop band from Six Nations. There’s country, there’s punk rock. A lot of new bands. Some of them are getting a bit of buzz.”
It’s a lot to unpack, Andress admitted, but festival goers can stay at one venue, spend as much time as they like, or travel around town. Andress notes last year he hustled to see the entire festival lineup.
Visit the Forge Fest website forgefest.ca for details, schedules, and a link to online wristband sales.
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