Written By David Gomez
STRATHROY – The Strathroy Hometown Festival is back for its 46th year, bringing an expanded celebration of local culture, music, and recreation from June 12 to 15. While Alexandra Park remains the central hub, this year’s festival extends across multiple community venues, reflecting a growing vision for what the event can offer.
“We have so many great recreational assets in our community,” said Shari Terwilligar, Festival Chair and Logistics. “To me, it’s good to promote their use.” From Alexandra Park to Yorkview Community Park and the Fairgrounds, the festival now includes sports tournaments, live music, youth performances, and more.
A major addition this year is the introduction of a country music night on Thursday (June 12), featuring local performer Graham Bedard and Whiskey Glasses, a tribute band to Morgan Wallen. “We listened to attendees who wanted more genres,” said Terwilligar. “Not everyone is just into rock, and this gives people more reason to come out and enjoy.”
While professional bands will headline each evening from Thursday to Saturday, the daytime schedule includes free performances aimed at younger audiences. “We’ve added two local dance crews and two youth bands, The Roemers and Full Throttle,” she said. “They’re inspiring musicians and we want to give them a stage.”
One of the community’s favourite traditions, Karaoke Idol, also returns this year, with categories for adults and juniors. “I haven’t had the nerve to go up and sing yet,” Terwilligar admitted with a laugh, “but I love seeing the talent we have in our community.”
Beyond the music, the festival features co-ed baseball at Yorkview Park, a pickleball tournament with expanded age groups at the Fairgrounds, and an inaugural disc golf tournament hosted by the Strathroy Lions Club. A special Father’s Day brunch on Sunday (June 15), held at the Portuguese Canadian Club, also supports the local hospice project.
Despite being run by a small volunteer team, the festival continues to grow thanks to strong community ties and returning sponsors. “It’s not always about money,” Terwilligar explained. “Sometimes it’s about partnerships. We’ve created great relationships with businesses that come back every year.”
Looking ahead to the weekend, Terwilligar’s message to the public is simple: “Thank you for trusting us to showcase our community each year.”
