Wow! We are officially in the Hall-iday spirit!

A big thanks goes out to everyone who joined us for our first-ever hall-iday edition this year. Two sold out shows in Almonte and Seeley’s Bay reminded us why we love celebrating small halls and vibrant local communities.

The events were highlighted by standing ovations and encores for The Once in both halls, beautiful audience participation, striking harmonies reverberating off of historic walls and seeing friends, neighbours and new area enthusiasts gather and mingle to foster festive spirit. We even welcomed a trio of talented fans all the way from Niagara Falls at both shows!

We were so happy with the response of our loyal community members and glad we made new Small Halls friends and supporters. The Once put on a mesmerizing show from start to finish. Goosebumps ensued from the first a cappella notes of Hark the Herald Angels Sing to the last strum of their clever Christmas medley from the 1980s. Their rendition of the late Leonard Cohen’s Anthem left audiences near tears and their originals garnered legions of news followers in rural Ontario.

The Once provided lovely feedback saying how much they enjoyed performing for two great audiences and they felt right at home in the small halls with big heart here in Eastern Ontario.

We’re already excited about the possibilities for next year’s Festival of Small Halls and can’t wait until spring, when we share which amazing local venues are chosen.

From everyone at the Ontario Festival of Small Halls to you – have a wonderful holiday season filled with love, laughter and good music!