Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Where is the Festival of Friends “Concert In The Park” located?
A. The Festival of Friends is located in Gage Park in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
Q. Is the concert really free and when is it?
A. Admission to the Festival of Friends “Concert In The Park” on September 18th, 2021 is 100% free to everyone.
Q. Who are the surprise headliners?
A. Sorry. We ain’t telling. But we can give you a hint: One of the surprise performers has headlined the Festival of Friends within the last decade. We’ll be dropping more clues over the next couple weeks.
Q. When do we get to know who the surprise performers are?
A. We’ll let you know the day before.
Q. What COVID protocols are you taking?
A. We take COVID-19 very seriously, and will be instituting a series of measures to protect volunteers, staff, and attendees.
This includes, but is not limited to:
1. COVID screening at all entrances.
2. Contact tracing.
3. Encourage mask wearing.
4. Setting up the main field in a way that encourages social distancing.
5. Capacity limits.
6. Random rapid testing of volunteers.
Q. Do I need to be vaccinated?
A. No. However we encourage everyone to get vaccinated. All of our staff is. And a mobile vaccination truck will be on-site at the concert!
Q. Do I need to wear a mask?
A. You must wear a mask if you are unable to socially distance. This will apply mostly to attendees hoping for a spot close to the stage. However, if you are able to distance, and you find yourself a quiet spot on the grass surrounded by friends and family, masks are not required. We also encourage mask wearing when standing in line, or partaking in any other activities.
Q. Is this like a regular Festival of Friends?
A. While the quality of entertainment and staging is the same, the event itself is a little different. For one, it’s only one day as opposed to the usual three. In addition, there wont be any arts and crafts vendors. This is first and foremost a concert series with a few extra activities thrown in.
Q. Will there be food?
A. Yes, there will be over a dozen food vendors on site.
Q. Is there a fee for parking?
A. Yes, there is a $10 fee for parking each day.
Q. Will you be selling beer?
A. Due to COVID protocols, beer will not be sold at this event.
Q. Where are the acoustic stages located?
A. Our “busker-style” acoustic stages will appear randomly in wooded areas near the fountain at the North side of the park. You’ll have to do a little searching. The stages are un-mic’d and not electrified. Something new we’re trying.
Q. In 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. 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. We encourage you to bring a blanket and/or a lawn chair and carve our your own socially distanced space to watch the concert.
Q. What time does the park open/close?
A. The “Concert In The Park” begins at 12:45pm on Saturday, September 18th and ends at 11:00pm.
If you have a question not covered here, please e-mail us at info@festivaloffriends.ca
