August 15th – 17th, 2025

After presenting the most successful Summerfolk in recent memory, the Georgian Bay Folk Society is planning for Summerfolk41, opening sales for the festival, and looking to the future. The GBFS is proud to announce that James Keelaghan will return as Summerfolk Artistic Director for the 2016 and 2017 festivals.

“I’m extremely excited to have the opportunity to book Summerfolk for the next two years”, said Keelaghan.  “I look forward to building on the hard work that the whole organization has done for the past four years”. Keelaghan first joined the GBFS as Artistic Director in 2011. He brings extensive knowledge of the industry from a musical career that has spanned over 25 years, included many performances at Summerfolk, and earned him a Juno award.

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Photo by Good Noise Photography

“We’re really happy with the job James has been doing”, said Phil Bye, Georgian Bay Folk Society President. “Audiences love the new ideas and vibe that he’s brought to the festival”.

News of Keelaghan’s return coincides with the launch of ticket sales for Summerfolk41, which will take place August 19-21, 2016. Summerfolk patrons can save $40 until December 31st by purchasing weekend passes at this year’s holiday sale price of $100. The GBFS is committed to presenting a festival for all ages and is continuing free admission for children 12 and under as well as discount pricing for students and seniors. “It’s important to us that young people and families have access to Summerfolk,” Bye said. “We’re planning so that Summerfolk will be going strong in another 40 years but that can only happen if young people get the chance to experience and fall in love with the music and the festival”.

The GBFs is gearing up for Summerfolk41 and Keelaghan is now accepting applications from potential performers. Artisan and food vendor applications will open in January 2016. For full ticket pricing and more information about the Georgian Bay Folk Society and the Summerfolk Music and Crafts Festival visit www.summerfolk.org/tickets  or call the GBFS office at 519-371-2995

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