Kempenfest is always a treasure hunter’s dream for serious collectors and amateur browsers alike, with dozens of antique vendors on site all weekend.
Whether you’re a record collector digging deep into crates on the grass, or just a kid trying to find that perfect superhero action figure, there are always treasures to be found.
Katherine Speirs of Barrie is a regular visitor to the annual event. “My mom and I come every year on the Sunday, and it’s just a great way to check out local shops and support local,” she tells BarrieToday.
She is also quite focused with her shopping goals and what she aims to find. “Some wicker baskets. I have a wicker problem,” she says, showing off her wicker purse where she stores her cash used to buy more wicker.
Her hunt was successful as she carried a pair of large wicker trays under her arm. “I enjoy the antiques the most because there’s always great finds to be found. There’s some new vendors that pop up every year and there’s something to find. There’s lots of treasures to be had,” added Speirs.
There are many shoppers who come from far and wide to take in the weekend here in town, but there are still many locals that are enjoying Kempenfest for the first time.
Kate Hengbeld of Barrie admits she has been a little slow at making her way to the event. “This is so embarrassing. This is my first time coming here, so I’m just so excited to be here. All the vendors look great.”
Her shopping mission is simple, but she may be vulnerable to distraction. “I’m looking for a wooden bowl to put my vegetables in. And all the jewellery is catching my eye.”
Not all who visit are as enamoured with the antiques as most of the visitors are this weekend.
Seven-year-old William Persicone, strolling through the site with his parents and siblings, said he would much rather shop for ice cream.
His slightly older brother Benjamin concurs, wanting “ice cream, slushies, and that’s it.”
Their youngest sibling, Samuel, 4, adds, “I want to go to the park.”
Clearly not everyone enjoys the allure of antiques and collectibles that can be found throughout the grounds at Kempenfest, but for those who are drawn to the hunt for that perfect prize, vendors will be offering up their remaining wares through Monday until 6 pm.
Bring an umbrella, as rain is forecast.
