Jakestock, the longest running music festival in Gilford, was co-founded 29 years ago by Jack Hayward and the late Glen Smith.
The goal was to bring music-lovers together on the Labour Day weekend for a day of live bands, food and fundraising.
The event used to be held in Hayward’s backyard; his Jake Bunny Music company brought in bands from across Ontario. Gilford residents and friends came out to enjoy the party, jam and raise money for causes that included Heart & Stroke and breast cancer research.
Since 2012, Jakestock has had a new venue and a new cause: the community-owned Gilford Hall on Bell’s Lane.
Originally built in the 1800s, it’s the last community-owned and operated hall in southern Ontario, with a board of directors that constantly struggles to raise the funds needed to repair and maintain the hall, and pay the taxes.
The hall board has accomplished a lot in the last couple of years: a new insulated ceiling, refinished flooring, new paint, new washrooms and the installation of air conditioning have all made the hall more attractive as a venue for everything from wedding receptions to classes and workshops.
Financial help has come from a Town of Innisfil community grant, as well as community donations and fundraisers like the annual St. Patrick’s Day bash – and Jakestock, this year held on Sunday, Sept. 2.
Jakestock offered games, face-painting and inflatables for the kids, while Mirene’s Food Truck sold poutine, burgers and hot dogs, sharing profits with the hall. There was also a fundraising silent auction.
But the focus of the festival was still the music. Bands included The Fitzees, Dickie & The Boys, Cousin Jack, Screaming Charlie, The Noolands, 3HT and Midlife Crisis.
Organizers hope to raise at least $3,000 to $4,000 through this year’s festival.
“That’s what we have to do,” said Lori McIntyre, chair, to cover costs. What was needed was a good turnout and with Mother Nature smiling on the last long weekend of summer, McIntyre was hopeful.
“Sunday afternoon, listen to some music … It doesn’t get any better than this,” said Duncan Ivany, lead singer with Dickie & The Boys, returning to play Jakestock for a third year.
Guests, who brought their own lawn chairs and blankets, agreed.
“This is our fourth year,” said Amanda Anderson, whose family came in from Uxbridge. “I love it. We know a band that plays, families are welcome – it’s just a nice way to spend a Labour Day weekend.”
Attending for the first time and staying with friends in the area, the Caulfield family came all the way from Guelph to support “a great cause.”
Jeff and Sheila Gourlay, who live in Gilford, walked over with their 10-year-old dog Lucy.
“It’s a great community,” said Sheila, adding Jakestock is a great way “to see some friends.”
Founder Jack Hayward was there, although he disclaimed any credit for this year’s festival.
“I’m not involved,” he said, having handed over his festival to the Gilford Hall Board. He said he was just taking a few photos and sharing videos of some of the bands, recorded live as they played on stage, sharing the music and the energy on YouTube.
Organizers were hoping to sell at least 300 to 400 tickets, and for the rain to hold off. As the evening wore on, it looked like they got their wishes.
