Nashville Takeover was a Success in Fenelon Falls!
Cowboy hats and boots filled the streets of Fenelon Falls last weekend as Nashville Takeover made its Kawartha Lakes debut.
Leading up to the event, there was certainly some skepticism about this Nashville-inspired event. By the weekend, however, any doubts had been replaced by the sounds of live music, enthusiastic crowds and visitors from across Canada and the US enjoying everything the event had to offer.
Unlike a traditional concert, Nashville Takeover gave audiences the opportunity to experience “songwriter rounds”, intimate performances where talented Canadian and Nashville-based songwriters shared not only their music but also the stories and inspiration behind the songs. The personal format created memorable experiences for country music fans and introduced many attendees to the rich tradition of Nashville’s songwriting culture.
Throughout the weekend, local venues came alive with performances. In Fenelon Falls, songwriter rounds were hosted at Ziraldo’s, the Fenelon Falls Legion, The Cow & Sow, Fenelon Falls Brewing Co., the outdoor stage and the Community Centre. In Bobcaygeon, performances took place at Graz Restaurant and El Patio, creating a true community-wide celebration of music.
Kawartha Lakes was selected as one of just 13 stops on the inaugural Nashville Takeover tour, making the event a unique opportunity to showcase our communities to first-time visitors.
As with any new event, there were lessons learned and opportunities for improvement. Even so, the overwhelming feedback from attendees, performers, and participating businesses was that the weekend was a memorable celebration of country music in Kawartha Lakes.