THUNDER BAY — The streets of Thunder Bay will come alive with as performers come from all over this weekend as the Thunder Bay Buskers Festival returns to celebrate its 10th anniversary.
“We’ve got an awesome mix of out-of-town performers and homegrown talent, some of whom have been with us since day one,” said Uriel Lubuk, one of the festival’s coordinators.
“It started as a sidewalk sale back in 2013, and it’s snowballed into this amazing community celebration of creativity.”
For two full days, Bay Street and Algoma Street will transform into a bustling, family-friendly hub filled with musicians, magicians, acrobats, dancers, artists and more, bringing their unique talents directly to the streets.
The festival runs from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday and 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Behind the scenes, organizers have worked tirelessly to make the festival possible. From road closures and vendor logistics to safety planning.
“We’re coordinating 60 plus vendors, managing food trucks, making sure the neighbourhood is on board," said fellow coordinator Caitlin Jeffs, "it’s a lot of work, but it’s worth it when you see the community come alive.”
Jeffs also emphasized the importance of creating accessible, inspiring events for families and children.
“Kids need to see people doing creative things in real life, not just on a screen or a stage,” she said.
“There’s something special about a performer being right there on the street, turning everyday space into something magical.”
This year’s festival includes more than just performances. There will be interactive art contests, and world cuisine from a wide range of food vendors including Filipino, African and East Indian dishes, alongside staples like poutine.
Among this year’s featured artists is Melody Corvid, a visual artist from Lappe, Ontario, best known for her “surrealist folk art” a style she describes as “cowboys leaning on fences, but surrealist and spooky.”
Joining her are artists Ed Blanchett, a long-time local fixture in the arts scene, and Nathan Cruz, known for his bold sculptural installations and painted cut-outs.
Corvid is also involved with the Tumblestone Music and Art Festival, another local cultural highlight later this summer.
“Our connection with the Buskers Festival has been strong for years,” Corvid said.
“It’s a great partnership that gives us visibility in Thunder Bay and helps draw attention to what we’re doing out in Lappe.”
