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“I hope you enjoy the weekend on the island, discover some artists who you have never seen or heard before, and make some new friends,� Baijal said in a press release.

And for the first time, guest curator Classic Roots — an Indigenous DJ, producer and performer from Thunder Bay, representing the Long Lake 58 First Nation, selected some artists, too. Those featured are Celeigh Cardinal, Drezus, Joel Wood & Tonia Jo Hall and Sebastian Gaskin.

“Let the festival be a space where cultures collide, spirits soar, and our shared rhythm leads us forward,� Roots said.

Here are a few more things you might need to know.

The weather outside

The weather this weekend won’t be as steamy — but the Weather Network is calling for some rain. The high of 26 degrees will be a welcome cool-down for folks spending the weekend outdoors. Pack your umbrella for Saturday night and Sunday, because they are calling for some showers.

Getting your tickets

You can still get day passes for all three days of the festival. Organizers said as of July 15, the festival was 85 per cent sold out overall, so you might want to grab your tickets online now. There are youth and senior options, and children under 12 get in for free with an adult.

Looking for something to eat?

The food pavilion will have local and regional chefs and artisans creating locally sourced, organic, sustainable menus. But don’t worry, there will be ice cream from Mapleton’s Organic Dairy and your favourite popsicles from Laza Food and Beverages Inc. A full list of vendors is also available online.

Music, music and more music

The complete line up and schedule of performances on all the stages is available now so you can plan ahead. Some main stage shows over the weekend include sets by Ruby Waters, Tim Baker, the Devin Cuddy Band, Son Rompe Pera, Femi Kuti & the Positive Force, Hurray for Riff Raff, and Lucius.

Local transportation

You can drive and park, especially if you are camping, but if you’re coming from öÏÓãÊÓƵapp, there is a shuttle bus to and from downtown. You can even exchange your ticket for a wristband when you board the bus and stay on it the whole way to the island entrance. Otherwise, you will have to stop at the main gate tent to get your wristband or badge.

Bring your bike and you can park it in Henry Kock’s Bike Lot. Volunteers will show you where to lock it up and can even help with tools if you need them. The öÏÓãÊÓƵapp Off Road Bicycling Association conducts rides leaving the festival from the bike area.

Being green

Don’t forget to bring your reusable water bottles to fill at the Water Wagon. At the festival you will also be able to use reusable dishes that are washed by volunteers.

Hillside is a green festival leader in the country and around the world, and it’s important we leave the conservation area the way we found it (or better!)

Learn more at You can also download the app on your phone to navigate and plan your experience. Happy Hillside, everyone!