KEMPENFEST.
COMMUNITY THAT CONNECTS YOU.

Kempenfest is an incorporated not-for-profit organization, often referred to as a “social enterprise”.

Kempenfest is comprised of a number of local not-for-profit organizations and service clubs who join forces to create the amazing weekend you enjoy each year. The weekend represents thousands of hours of volunteer planning and execution of the event.

The Kiwanis Club of Barrie joined forces with the Barrie Art Club to create Kempenfest 50 years ago, and their work continues today.

Presently, both clubs continue to work as a joint collective to bring you the “Huronia Festival of Arts & Crafts”, a juried selection of artisans and crafters from across the region and beyond.

The Kiwanis Club also operates two food booths at Kempenfest, and funds raised at the festival allows the club to continue their work and support of charitable causes. The Barrie Art Club also operates a volunteer-based gallery, which is open to the public for viewing, and a list of programs to help support local artists.

The Rotary Club of Barrie is a long-time member of Kempenfest. They host the OLG Main Stage and beer gardens on the South Shore. Profit from Kempenfest is used by the club to continue their work with Royal Victoria Hospital, YMCA, Food Bank, Christmas Cheer, and the South Shore Centre.

The Optimist Club of Barrie organizes the Optimist Antique Show featuring over 30 antique dealers. Funds raised through Kempenfest are used to support the club’s ongoing work with youth.

The Knights of Columbus host The Oasis – in the heart of the event and right up against the water’s-edge. Profits from Kempenfest are used to continue the organization’s support of those less fortunate in our community.

The Greater Barrie Chamber of Commerce is one of the original Kempenfest members. They connect the power of the Barrie business community to ensure this vital economic driver is a success.

Likewise, The City of Barrie sits on our board of directors, represented by Arin Donnelly the City Events Coordinator. In addition to the endless help they provide through the Parks and Roads departments not only to prep for Kempenfest, but to help restore the parks to their pristine shape afterwards, but Arin’s expertise in site matters and dealing with massive crowds proves invaluable to us. We could not do it without Arin and her team at the City of Barrie.

Tourism Barrie also plays a vital role in assisting Kempenfest not only throughout the weekend, but throughout the year. with guidance and advice, and marketing expertise.