Frequently Asked Questions
Q. When is the Festival of Friends?
A. The 2023 Festival of Friends will take place August 4, 5, 6th. The Civic Holiday weekend.
Q. Where is the Festival of Friends located?
A. The Festival of Friends is located in Gage Park in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
Q. Is the Festival really free?
A. Admission to the Festival of Friends is 100% free to everyone.
Q. Sure, free to get in, but I probably have to pay to watch the concerts, right?
A. No, all three stages of entertainment are free. As are the vendor areas. There are costs associated with certain vendors, such as the Midway or Pony Rides. As well, there is a charge for parking on the Festival grounds.
Q. Is there a fee for parking?
A. Yes, there is a $10 fee for parking each day.
Q. Is Gage Park wheelchair accessible?
A. Somewhat. The historic natural nature of Gage Park means that the majority of the Festival takes places on grass and turf. While there are some paved and dirt paths, it’s important to remember that the event takes place in an open field. Please understand that we do our best to make the Festival of Friends as accessible to everyone as possible. We appreciate your understanding.
Q. Can I bring my dog to Gage Park?
A. Visitors must follow all City of Hamilton bylaws. Please check with them for any clarification.
Q. Is public transportation available to the Festival?
A. Yes. The HSR provides regular scheduled service in and around the Gage Park area.
Q. What if it rains? Does the Festival continue?
A. The Festival of Friends runs rain or shine. In the event of serious weather (ie: lightning or hail) concerts may be temporarily delayed.
Q. Where is the acoustic stage located?
A. Our “busker-style” acoustic stage is located in the wooded near the fountain at the North end of the park. You’ll have to do a little searching. The stage is un-mic’d and not electrified. Something new we’re trying.
Q. Are there activities for my children?
A. Yes. There are a number of attractions, including a midway, pony rides, bouncy castles, face painting, and other attractions.
Q. Do you provide a map of Gage Park?
A. Yes!
Q. Is there reserve seating at the concerts?
A. No. Seating at the Festival is General Admission, located on an open lawn.
Q. Can I bring my own chair to sit and watch the show?
A. You are more than welcome to bring a lawn chair, or other seating device to the Festival. However, sometimes crowds can get large, and sitting may not be possible close to the stage.
Q. What time does the park open/close?
A. The Festival begins at 2:00pm on Friday, and 12:00pm on Saturday/Sunday. The festival ends at 11:00pm all 3 nights, with the park closing at midnight.
Q. What COVID protocols are you taking?
A. We are following all current Ontario recommendations. In addition, despite not being a requirement, all of our backstage volunteers and staff are vaccinated.
Q. Do I need to wear a mask?
A. No masking is required. However, it is up to the comfort level of each attendee.
If you have a question not covered here, please e-mail us at info@festivaloffriends.ca
