A bit of rain and fish flies didn't discourage Block Party concert goers over the weekend.
Bluewater Health Foundation Executive Director Kathy Alexander is thrilled with how the event went.
"Mother Nature certainly threw a little bit of a wrench in our plans on Friday night, and then we had the swarming of some bugs on Saturday night, but it really didn't stop people from enjoying themselves," said Alexander.
The Trews headlined Friday's event and Walk Off The Earth took the stage Saturday.
The Trews perform at the Bluewater Health Foundation Block Party. June 10, 2022 (Image courtesy of Kerry’s Klips Photography)
Alexander said there was a "remarkable vibe" throughout Centennial Park all weekend.
"The music was wonderful and I think, really, it was a special gathering for many people for the first time in two and a half years. There was a really special vibe throughout the Suncor Agora space and it was just something we were really, really, proud of."
Despite efforts to promote the shows, they didn't sell out.
"We had just over 1,500 on Friday night for The Trews and Red Wanting Blue and about 1,000 for Walk Off The Earth on Saturday. We were definitely under our projected sales goals, so we had really hoped for some more ticket sales. Our fundraising goal wasn't fully realized, but we're still thrilled nonetheless."
Alexander said the final fundraising total is still being calculated, but it will be below the $80,000 goal.
"This was an event that we planned almost three years ago, so even just getting it to happen is a success in our books. We're thinking that we netted about $30,000 for our mental health and addictions program here at the hospital and that's really through the incredible support of our presenting sponsor Carpenters Union Local 1256."
Alexander said they'll do a reevaluation and assessment of the event before planning a Block Party in 2023.
"We're really hopeful that we'll be back next year and people will continue to come out and support us. We're one of the many music festivals in our community and that's wonderful. I think that people are just wanting to come out and enjoy live music again and for us, it's an important fundraiser and every dollar raised really does make a difference on the programs that we offer here at the hospital for mental health and addictions."