Local Festivals & Summer Sounds: A Season of Music Begins

May 28, 2025

By Kelli McRobert

Despite looming clouds and an occasional drizzle, the spirit of the community remained unshaken as families gathered in Westport for a blend of celebrations. The EcoFest, hosted by the Electric Vehicle Council of Ottawa (EVCO), took center stage with its focus on sustainability and innovation. Just across the street, the Farmers Market bustled with energy, while attendees later made their way to the South Frontenac Summer Kickoff Music Festival, a lively showcase of sound, talent, and togetherness.

EcoFest invited visitors to explore creative eco-solutions and discover simple ways to support environmental initiatives. A petting zoo delighted young attendees, offering hands-on interactions with friendly animals, while cloggers tapped out rhythmic steps, filling the air with a blend of tradition and joyful movement. Meanwhile, the Westport Farmers Market treated visitors to a feast of fresh seedlings, baked goods, and handcrafted wares. The scent of warm bread and rain mingled as vendors proudly displayed their locally sourced products, emphasizing the value of community-driven commerce.

As early afternoon neared, festivalgoers flocked to the South Frontenac Summer Kickoff Music Festival, where the sturdy pavilion offered shelter from passing showers. The hum of generators underscored the buzz of conversation as food trucks lined the parking lot, serving various flavours—from rich barbecue to crispy golden fries. Children reveled in the festival’s fun zones while artisans displayed their carefully crafted goods in the vendor village. Rows of Canadian flag chairs stood proudly in neat formation as attendees settled in for a full day of live performances. Amid the music’s infectious rhythm, a few eager dancers took to the floor, feet tapping and bodies swaying as they brought the energy to life. The performances included Wendy Lynn Snider, Crossing Borders, Trevor Walsh Group, Rev it Up, River Cats, Dean James, and Abby Stewart, closing the show.

Music became the festival’s heartbeat, each performance seamlessly blending into the next under the guidance of master of ceremonies Bill Welychka. The atmosphere thrummed with connection and appreciation, celebrating artistry and community. Volunteers worked behind the scenes, ensuring each detail flowed effortlessly and contributing to the festival’s smooth execution.

A special acknowledgment goes to Amanda Pantrey, her hardworking team, and the sponsors (Boulton Septic, Myers Design & Build, Ryan Rose, Remax, BeHome, Nomad Yogini, Dig N’ Dirt, L&D Harrison Pit, Adam Rayner, Sutton, Raw Dog Feed.com, and Hartington Equipment) whose dedication turned a potentially damp day into a vibrant celebration. Their commitment ensured that laughter, learning, and the joy of music carried on uninterrupted. As the final chords faded, fire pits burned embers glowed, food vendors packed up, and attendees slowly dispersed, the day left a lasting impression—a perfect harmony of culture, collaboration, and community spirit.

The Beats by the Beach series in South Frontenac is back with free lakeside concerts! Here are the upcoming dates:

• Saturday, June 21 – McMullen Beach, Verona, featuring The Goodnight Irenes 1pm-3pm
• Saturday, July 19 – Gilmour's Point Park, Battersea, featuring Interrobang 1pm-3pm
• Saturday, August 16 – The Point Park, Sydenham, featuring Whiskey Smoke 1pm-3pm

The June 21nd concert is part of South Frontenac’s "June is Recreation Month"  event, which will include a special cornhole tournament, yard games, face painting, bracelet making, and more!

See you there!

(Editors Note - In the print edition, there were errors in the Beats by the Beach listings in this article. the 2024 schedule was published. the correct information is printed above)