The Strumbellas will rock this summer’s Block Party
‘We want a band that’s really exciting and fun and is going to bring people to our downtown to dance and sing along, so we thought they were a great fit,’ McCallum said
The Strumbellas are headlining the Bay Block Party this August, and organizers are looking for local and regional bands to join the roster.
“Last year we had a record-breaking turnout,” enthused Hannah McCallum, Project Coordinator with the Capitol Centre. “The community floods downtown and brings so much love for all of the artists, musicians, and the businesses that become apart of it.”
“It really is great to see the community centre come together, and we’re excited for that again this year,” McCallum added.
This morning, within the front foyer of the Capitol Centre, McCallum and other staff members announced that The Strumbellas will be headlining this year’s event.
The popular downtown event returns on August 22 with a day of music, events, and fun for all ages. The Bay Block Party is free to attend, runs all day, and has events for all-ages in downtown North Bay. With active participation from local musicians, breweries, food vendors, artisans, and family-friendly activities, Bay Block Party fosters a vibrant and safe downtown atmosphere, celebrates local businesses, and supports the community.
Produced by the Capitol Centre, the annual event is a big draw, as thousands convene on Main Street throughout the day. Organizers are also hosting an opening night party on August 21 to extend the festivities.
Former headlining acts include Dwayne Gretzky, The Trews and Bahamas. This year’s headliners, The Strumbellas, came to prominence with their international hit “Spirits” in 2016. The song topped the Billboard Alternative Airplay chart, and the band followed up with other fan favourites like “We Don’t Know,” Shovels & Dirt,” and “Salvation.”
The band is no stranger to North Bay, as the Capitol Centre hosted the band for a show in 2024.
Asked why The Strumbellas were top of mind for this year’s festival, McCallum was quick to say, “They’re a very high-energy band, which is what we’re looking for at the Bay Block Party.”
“We want a band that’s really exciting and fun and is going to bring people to our downtown to dance and sing along, so we thought they were a great fit,” McCallum said.
Plus, the band is Canadian, hailing from Lindsay, Ontario, just outside of Peterborough. Highlighting Canadian talent is important to the Capitol Centre, McCallum said, which is why organizers are also seeking local and regional bands to join the musical roster.
On the big day, there will be two stages. The main stage is where you’ll see The Strumbellas, and there will also be The Rogers Radio North Bay Acoustic Stage. The latter is for smaller acoustic acts, and organizers are looking to fill that stage with local acts that suit that style.
However, local bands can also apply for the main stage and go fully electric. If your band has the grooves to keep up with The Strumbellas and has the ability to truly rock the Bay Block Party, then organizers want to hear from you.
To apply, send a press kit complete with a photo and a few songs to info@bayblockparty.ca. Organizers are also looking for vendors and sponsorship as well.
By David Briggs. BayToday.ca
