Tara Jeffrey
One of the largest three-day music festivals in Ontario will kick off this summer when Bluewater BorderFest returns to Sarnia’s Centennial Park.
The annual festival announced its official lineup Thursday, featuring some big names in Canadian and U.S. music, set to take the stage June 22, 23 and 24. 
The event kicks off Thursday night with U.S. county hitmaker Justin Moore, and Canadian country music star Tim Hicks, along with Canadian-born and Nashville-based MacKenzie Porter, and Canadian country music disc jockey DJ Johnny Rivex.
Friday night is headlined by City and Colour, along with The Sheep Dogs, Windsor-based The Blue Stones, and local favourites The Down River Band.
Saturday’s lineup includes headliner Daughtry, followed by Theory of a Deadman, Pop Evil and The Bad Men Association.
“Our Bluewater BorderFest organizing committee is proud to be a not for profit committee dedicated to supporting the region in all ways possible,” said chair Brian McNair, pointing to the festival’s economic impact since its launch in 2017. “The committee takes pride in producing a world class entertainment experience for thousands of fans and visitors, while generating hundreds of thousands of dollars in economic spinoffs for Sarnia-Lambton businesses and community organizations.
“We strive to be unique by bringing new bands to the region that have not played in the area in decades, and some have never played in our market before, while also being one of the most inclusive and affordable music festivals in Canada.”
The festival was interrupted by COVID-19 but organizers worked hard to figure out how to provide live entertainment for Sarnians despite protocols and restrictions.
Their innovative ‘Rocking the Runway’ drive-in concert at Sarnia Chris Hadfield Airport sold out in 2020. And in 2021, they staged OktBorderfest under the Blue Water Bridge with Kim Mitchell, Barenaked Ladies and The Glorious Sons.
Last year, thousands flocked to Centennial Park for an all-Canadian lineup that included the Tea Party, Sam Roberts, Alessia Cara, Marianas Trench, Our Lady Peace, Finger Eleven and Sloan.
Tickets for each night range from $74.99 to $99.99 plus tax and fees. Multi-day discounts are also provided with two and three-day ticket options. VIP tickets are available in limited quantities, as they are expected to sell quickly, after selling out for all days in 2022.