Things are getting real as the Ontario Festival of Small Halls show dates come closer – familiar faces are set to join and community events are busily being planned by hosts.

After announcing the 2018 fall headliners back June, the opening acts are being finalized, happening Sept. 13 to 30 in more than 30 cherished small halls across Eastern Ontario and the Ottawa Valley.

From a super female folk duo to an opener who plays more than 100 shows a year, this year’s opening acts will help entrench the community vibe at the Festival performances. Look here for the most up to date list of local opening musicians – more added daily! See any familiar names?

Many of the small town venues on the schedule this year have kick-started careers for local musicians by providing an opportunity for them to play at community events like suppers and dances. The Festival is thrilled to showcase local talent that adds to the authenticity of hearing music at Ontario’s rural halls.

To further drive home that down home experience, hall hosts are planning a slate of community events that will be associated with each show. From markets ripe with local produce to savoury barbecue dinners el fresco, the host halls are throwing open their doors to make the 2018 performances of the Festival of Small Halls even more memorable. Some require reservations so be sure to plan ahead!

Find out more about the Festival’s local openers and community events at www.ontariosmallhalls.com and be sure to connect with the Festival on social media as the summer progresses for more updates. Ticketing info can also be found online or by calling 613.402.1425.

Some shows are on the cusp of selling out, so secure your spot to avoid disappointment! To put that into perspective here is a Small Halls insider tip: the show in Tamworth featuring Lindi Ortega with Madison Galloway has less than a dozen tickets left! This is what we’re talking about, folks.  See you there!