Now that the World’s Largest Rubber Duck has flown on from Midland, organizers of Feast Fest and the Ontario 150 Tour are taking a look at the immense impact the festival has had on the region and its local businesses, between July 21-23, 2017. Early estimates show that 70,000 people came through the Midland waterfront festival site to see the giant duck, as well as take in 150-themed entertainment including the West Coast Lumberjack Show, and Rhythm of the Nation.
“The only thing bigger than the crowds, were the smiles on people’s faces,” joked Scott Cooper, Marketing & Communications Officer with the Town of Midland. “This was a tremendous partnership between the festival organizers and the Town of Midland, and we look forward to fully analyzing the undeniable economic impact this event has had on our region.”
The first-ever Feast Fest Midland was another winner at the gates, as large crowds of hungry foodies sought out a wide array of delicious food items while enjoying the weekends’ line-up of local and touring live musical talent. Canadian Country artist Bobby Wills Friday night headline concert drew a crowd of 2,800. Saturday nights’ headline concert with Canadian Rock legends Honeymoon Suite, drew over 3,500 to the Midland waterfront. Over the course of the weekend, Feast Fest organizers counted in over 30,000 people through the Feast Fest licensed grounds alone.
“It was the best weekend in Midland I’ve ever seen,” raved Mike Ross, Deputy Mayor of Midland. “The entertainment was phenomenal; I simply couldn’t believe the crowds out enjoying the music, food, and the park. Feast Fest has got to come back next year.”
Feast Fest, a Food, Drink & Music Festival concept new to 2017 has now visited Sudbury, Midland, and is scheduled to visit London Ontario, Sept 22-24. “It was a fantastic event for all involved” comments Feast Fest partner Paul Fairley. “The collaboration with the Town of Midland created certain synergies and results, which far surpassed our expectations. We hope to see the concept develop into an annual partnership.”
More information on Feast Fest dates can be found at www.FeastFest.ca. More information about the Ontario 150 tour can be found at www.on150tour.com.
