Go North Music Festival Wins Arts Award, Celebrates Community Spirit

The Go North Music Festival has been recognized with the Arts award at the 2023 SooToday Community Builders Awards, highlighting its significant impact on the cultural landscape of St. Joseph Island and the wider Algoma region. Since its inception in 2017, the festival has transformed from a modest summer concert series into a vibrant celebration of music, art, and community.

From Humble Beginnings to Cultural Anchor

Originally part of the Township of St. Joseph’s “Just Passing Through” concert series, the Go North Music Festival has grown to become a staple summer destination. Over the years, it has hosted renowned Canadian musicians such as The Trews and Big Sugar, alongside a diverse lineup of emerging talents from across the country.

The festival offers more than just music; it creates a space where families can enjoy dedicated kids’ areas, food enthusiasts can sample local delicacies from various vendors, and artisans can display their handcrafted goods. This multifaceted approach has made the Go North Music Festival not only a celebration of artistic expression but also a catalyst for local engagement.

Community Impact and Future Aspirations

The festival relies entirely on volunteers, emphasizing its commitment to accessibility and collaboration. Even after a two-year hiatus during the pandemic, the festival returned with renewed vigor, attracting larger crowds each year.

“This is wonderful. We’re very honoured to be considered one of Sault Ste. Marie’s community builders,” said Sheri Gladu, community projects coordinator for the Township of St. Joseph and a representative for the Go North Music Festival. Gladu expressed pride in witnessing families come together and enjoy the festival, highlighting music’s vital role in fostering community cohesion.

She remarked, “We understand that for a community to feel cohesive, we need to come together. There are lots of different ways to do that, but music is one of the most wonderful ways for people to join together and celebrate what it is to be part of Northern Ontario.”

The Arts award acknowledges an individual or group that has significantly enhanced the artistic community, contributing to local growth and vitality. The Go North Music Festival is now seen as a vital tradition and a source of pride for the region.

Looking ahead, Gladu shared optimism for the future, stating, “We are very appreciative of this award and we look forward to presenting even bigger and better Go North Music Festivals in the years to come.” The festival stands as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives, uniting people through shared cultural experiences.