LAURIE WEIR
PERTH — The Stewart Park Festival is set to return to downtown Perth from July 18 to 20, offering three days of free music, artisan markets, family programming and community spirit.
Now in its 34th year, the by-donation festival draws thousands of people to Stewart Park and the surrounding heritage district for a packed lineup of performances on two main stages: the Main Stage in the park and the Crystal Palace stage just across the Tay River. Evening shows on Friday and Saturday continue into the licensed after-hours patio area, which requires a wristband for entry.
Friday’s Main Stage performers include Serge Monette, Kelly McMichael, Lloyd Spiegel and the Blackburn Brothers.
Saturday’s headliners include the Great Lake Swimmers, a Toronto-based indie-folk band fronted by singer-songwriter Tony Dekker. Known for their poetic lyrics, acoustic depth and atmospheric sound, the group has spent more than 20 years recording in unique spaces—churches, halls and even grain silos—to bring natural resonance to their music. Their 2023 album Uncertain Country marked two decades of songwriting grounded in change and reflection. Tracks like “Moonlight, Stay Above,” featuring the Minuscule women’s choir, showcase their collaborative spirit. Twice Juno-nominated and described by the CBC as a “national treasure,” the band continues to deliver expansive, emotionally honest folk rooted in place and time.
Also on Saturday’s bill is Joel Plaskett, a mainstay in Canadian music for more than 30 years. The Nova Scotia singer-songwriter is known for his genre-blending sound and heartfelt storytelling. His discography includes Down at the Khyber, Ashtray Rock and the multi-record projects Three and 44. His latest album, One Real Reveal (2024), returns to stripped-down, intimate songwriting. Plaskett has performed across the country and internationally, including Massey Hall and an opening set for Paul McCartney. His work has earned recognition from the JUNOs, Polaris Music Prize and East Coast Music Awards. Based in Dartmouth, he also runs Fang Recording Studio and curates unplugged community events through Window Inn Wednesdays.

The Great Lake Swimmers will take the stage Saturday night during the annual Stewart Park Festival in Perth. Photo credit: Submitted.
Earlier sets on Saturday will feature Jessica Pearson, Ray Bonneville, Quique Escamilla and others.
Sunday brings a more relaxed vibe, with afternoon performances by Garçons à marier, Buffalo Rose and Night Sun.
A crowd favourite, the annual YAK Rubber Duck Race is scheduled for 1 p.m. Sunday, with about 2,000 ducks released into the Tay River. Ducks can be purchased right up to race time. The grand prize is $1,000, with $750 for second place and $250 for third. Proceeds support youth programming through YAK Youth Services.
At the Crystal Palace stage, visitors can catch local and touring acts throughout the weekend, including Washboard Hank and Reverend Ken, Landon Bedor, Rube and Rake, and Matthew Barber. After-hours programming starts at 8 p.m. each night, with three back-to-back sets. Tickets for the after-hours concerts are $15 and available at the Info Tent or at the door.
The festival also features a bustling outdoor market with more than 50 vendors selling local food, art and handmade goods. Visitors can shop, eat and enjoy pop-up performances throughout the park and nearby streets. A kids’ zone across the footbridge offers arts and crafts, puppet shows and interactive workshops in music, dance and theatre. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Families are encouraged to bring towels and enjoy a splash in the Tay River, a long-standing tradition for many younger festival-goers.
Parking is free in designated lots across Perth, with shuttle buses available to bring visitors to and from the festival site. Due to construction on Craig Street, attendees are encouraged to check the festival website for updated shuttle information.
The Stewart Park Festival is presented by the Downtown Heritage Perth BIA, with support from the Town of Perth and local sponsors. Admission is free, though donations are encouraged to help keep the festival sustainable for future years.
For more information and a full schedule of events, visit the Stewart Park Festival website.