Kitchener Blues Festival 2024: A celebration of music, community and culture
The Kitchener Blues Festival has returned, promising four days of world-class blues performances, community spirit and celebration.
Starting Thursday and running until Sunday, Victoria Park and several downtown venues will host a lineup of legendary artists, emerging talent and diverse acts from across the globe.
Now in its 24th year, the festival has become a staple in Kitchener’s cultural calendar, attracting tens of thousands of visitors annually.
This year’s lineup features a mix of international blues legends and homegrown talent, with performances by renowned artists like Cooper Brothers, Matt Minglewood and Colin James. In addition to the main stage acts, festival-goers can explore various side stages, showcasing up-and-coming artists and local bands.
The festival kicked off Thursday evening with a fundraiser concert in Victoria Park featuring Colin James and the Matt Weidinger Band as the opening act.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including music workshops, jam sessions, and interactive exhibits that celebrate the history of blues music.
Local vendors will offer a range of culinary options, from classic BBQ to international cuisine, alongside craft brews from local breweries.
If you are heading to Kitchener to check out the festival, be advised that there will be a number of road closures in place until Monday morning.
For more information about the festival, including the full lineup and schedule, visit the official Kitchener Blues Festival website.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Woman who died in B.C. jail cell had asked to be taken to hospital twice, report shows
A woman who died from drug toxicity while in a B.C. jail cell asked to be taken to hospital twice in the hours after she was taken into custody in a case the province's police watchdog says again raises concerns over the treatment of intoxicated prisoners.
Why is this village in Quebec facing a 370 per cent property tax hike?
Residents in the small Quebec village of Danford Lake may soon be priced out of their homes, as property valuations and taxes are set to skyrocket.
James Earl Jones, acclaimed actor and voice of Darth Vader, dies at 93
James Earl Jones, who overcame racial prejudice and a severe stutter to become a celebrated icon of stage and screen — eventually lending his deep, commanding voice to CNN, 'The Lion King' and Darth Vader — has died. He was 93.
Romeo Dallaire now recovered from severe infection: CTV News Exclusive
Romeo Dallaire is ready to return to public life again this fall after a serious health scare forced the retired lieutenant-general to postpone his cross-country book tour in March.
Calgary's police chief speaks out against Alberta's anticipated photo radar crackdown
Calgary’s police chief has issued a grave warning about the potential impact of further restrictions on photo radar use in Alberta.
White Stripes sue Donald Trump over use of 'Seven Nation Army' riff in social media post
The White Stripes sued former U.S. president Donald Trump on Monday in a case that alleges he used their hit song 'Seven Nation Army' without permission in a video posted to social media.
Alberta protesters get 6 1/2-year sentences for roles in Coutts border blockade
One of two men sentenced Monday to 6 1/2 years for firearms violations and mischief at the border blockade at Coutts, Alta., says the time he has already spent behind bars has changed him and his "solemn weapon” is now love.
'You can't miss Luke Skywalker': Mark Hamill spotted filming in Manitoba town
Star Wars icon Mark Hamill rode through the streets of Stonewall, Man. last month filming scenes atop what looked to be an Army vehicle for the upcoming film adaptation of Stephen King's "The Long Walk."
Former Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney to join Liberal Party as special adviser
Former Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney will be joining the Liberal Party as a special adviser. In an official press release on Monday, the party says Carney will serve as the chair of a leader's task force on economic growth.