What a lovely weekend to spend some time outdoors enjoying the rich and diverse culture of our region as far as crafts, food and music goes, at the annual “It’s Your Festival” held at Gage Park in Hamilton. Last year we covered the “Festival of Friends” at the same location and over the years we been to both festivals countless times, as it’s one of those things you pencil into your calendar for the summer months.
You’re probably wondering why there’s a parking violation picture at the top of this post, since I’m sure there’s a much better picture to start of this review with. Unlike other years when you could easily park on the streets immediately surrounding Gage Park, this year was a bit different and it seems many people were not aware of this. As we searched out a parking spot on the streets, we started seeing parking tickets on cars and it was only then did we notice the parking violation signs (could be easily missed if you came through a side street). I guess this is one way to force people to use the paid parking that’s supplied by the event. I’d hate to be any one of those people who came back to a ticket on their car. I’m sure the flow of traffic is an inconvenience for the people living around Gage Park, but I think this comes with the territory and besides, it’s just a couple weekends a year. Will we be seeing similar signs around all parks and playgrounds in Hamilton soon, when there’s a soccer or baseball game?
It’s Your Festival is a great opportunity to mingle with people from your neighborhood, try ethnic foods, browse though an assortment of craft stalls and end it all with the wonderful sounds of the live bands that are featured every year.
Two things you immediately notice as you enter the park is how clean the area is, as there are tons of garbage cans (even recycling) spread throughout the park and it seems people are actually using them. The other thing is how spread out the entire event is. There’s ample room for whatever large crowd they were expecting and the organizing committee must be have really done their homework. As events in the past always seemed crowded, especially when you start encountering people with baby buggies and those on powered wheelchairs etc. With wide spaces between booths, this also allowed for a cool breeze to work it’s way through the event and cool down a very hot and steamy day.
Unlike the Festival Of Friends, this event had a lot of choices as far as food goes. The air was perfumed with the alluring scent of international cuisine that challenged the senses to pinpoint what you were smelling. It was like taking a worldwide trip without ever leaving home. Greek, Indian, Caribbean, Mexican and for the first time at one of these event’s we even had Chinese food on sale. BTW, Europe and Canada were well represented as well.
For the kids and kids at heart there was a midway that was full of activity and the hit this seems to have been the rock climbing wall that not only had a line to get on, but an excited crowd gathered to see people struggle at getting at the top. Expect to pay prices similar to such midways you’ve been to int he past and the games (ones you pay to play and win a prize) you must pay attention to before you pay to play. The huge prizes you see are not necessarily the ones you get as the winner. There’s the fine print, that’s very fine.
It’s Your festival is a great way to spend the evening if you’re not away on vacation or at the cottage for the Canada Day weekend (or weekend closest to the Canada Day holiday). Head over to the beer tent, get a cold beverage and with it’s close proximity to the live music area, enjoy the vibes. Be a bit daring and try one of the many international dishes on sale… try something new and unique that you’d never give a second thought to before. If crafts are your thing, you’ll be in bliss as there’s a lot of vendors who offer many “crafty” options. Besides the midway, the kids could enjoy a ride on a pony or try their talents at the singing/virtual booths put on by “Family Channel” and the other music tents.
Entry to the event is free, but there’s a fee for parking and on average the food, drink, frozen desserts and beer is about 15-20% higher than what you’d normally pay outside an event like this. It’s usually very hot as it’s very open to the elements, so pack water and remember to dress light and wear sunblock.
What: It’s Your Festival
Where: Gage Park Hamilton
Contact organizers: 149 Main Street East, Suite #101, Hamilton Ontario L8N 1G4 Tel: 905.525.2297 Fax: 905.525.0066
Cost : Free (paid parking available)
When: Usually coincides with Canada Day celebrations (weekend closest to Canada Day. 3-4 days in total)
Getting there:
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