THUNDER BAY - The Bay and Algoma District came alive for the annual Busker’s Festival on Saturday.
Organizers estimated nearly 6,000 people attended the festival which is now in its seventh year.
“People really seem to like this village we’ve created,” said organizer Brian Hamilton. “It’s a team effort, a giant theatre that everyone is part of. Sunday is always a big day too, so we’ll be ready for another round of fun.”
Food, beer, activities, and the main attraction for many - live performers.
Kevin Cernjul and his band the Bay Street Bastards have been with the Buskers Festival every step of the way.
What started as a cover band in 2012, the group has transformed into a celtic punk rock group that has fans locally and worldwide. For seven straight years they haven’t missed the chance to play at Busker’s.
“Our first festival we didn’t really know, we learned a bunch of cover songs. We thought the crowd might like it… and we ended up getting good crowds when we played,” Cernjul said.
On Saturday, the Bay Street Bastards were set up in front of Bean Fiend where they attracted a crowd of roughly 60 people.
Spectators at the festival have the option of browsing, looking for food, and participating in activities, so Cernjul knows he needs to captivate a wondering audience.
“It’s a lot more interactive, but people are moving so you need to grab their attention. They aren’t stuck at a bar at a stage listening to us. So we need to make sure what we’re playing is keeping their attention and that they can sing along.”
Each year, the festival has grown in noticeable ways, Cernjul said.
“Going from one street, to two streets, to closing down the street… It’s just become such a big event.”
The Bay and Algoma District is the place the Bay Street-based band calls home, and Cernjul says the festival reflects the ways it has evolved in recent years.
“This is a tourism area now, and it’s amazing to see all the little shops that have opened up, not just chains and big businesses... anyone who has an idea can do something.
“This started as an idea and look at it now. It’s great”
The event runs Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Bay Street Bastards will be performing at 2:30 p.m., and 4:30 p.m.
