The Gussapolooza Music and Arts Festival returns to Cookstown on Friday (Sept. 15) for three days of celebrating local bands and artists at the Georgian Bay Steam Show Grounds, located at 4635 15th Line.
With live music including rock, hip-hop, pop, country, electronic, and folk on three stages in addition to comedy shows, buskers, workshops, food trucks and stands, and vendors, attendees are invited to enjoy the festival’s “unique three-day camp-out extravaganza” or purchase a three-day Pass without access to campgrounds.
Day passes are also available for each day of the festivities. The festival’s hours are Friday from 3 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
"At Gussapolooza, we're not just celebrating music and art, we're building a vibrant community of local support and creative excitement,” said main organizer Valerie Robson. “Join us for a weekend that's all about empowering local talent and experiencing the thrill of emerging music and art.”
Founded in 2016, the Gussapolooza Music and Arts Festival’s About page explains that “Gussapolooza is more than just music — it’s a haven for artists, creators, and entrepreneurial spirits.”
Organizers say attendees are not merely patrons of the arts, but rather cherished members of the community: "You are not just an ordinary festival-goer. You are a talent scout, a record label executive and a devoted music enthusiast with the power to bestow the prestigious Gussapolooza Music Awards upon your favourite artists, propelling them towards the global stage.”
Tent camping is free, in either the 'family zone' or the 'party zone,' with the purchase of a weekend pass.
Vehicle passes and RV passes are available, and campsites will be on a first-come, first-served basis, so campers are encouraged to claim their spot when gates open at 3 p.m., Friday.
Glass bottles are not permitted on the campgrounds. There will be a beer tent outside by the main stages, as well as a small bar inside the acoustic stage lounge.
The event will take place rain or shine.
Tickets are available online by clicking here or at the gate (cash only).
