The Hater's Guide to Harvest Week

Issue 15 Volume 1

Sep 09, 2024

Fredericton’s biggest music festival, Harvest Music Festival, happens this week from September 10th to 15th. Whether you love Harvest, hate Harvest or are new to Harvest we hope the following tips and suggestions help make your week a great one.

The Haters

First of all, no one should “hate” Harvest Music Festival. You may not attend, you may care less but no one should hate an event that brings so much music and culture to the region including programming for the schools. Millions of dollars in economic impact (direct and indirect) to Fredericton and smiles on many faces.

But it is entirely possible you don’t like crowds, you don’t enjoy live music or you are pissed that you have to park farther away from work. Whatever the reason, maybe Harvest isn’t for you, and that's fine.

(Editors note: once upon a time 20 years ago you may have avoided Harvest because “I don’t like jazz or blues” but that ship has sailed. Pretty much every musical genre (other than classical?) is represented. There are performances for every music fan so don’t let the former jazz and blues moniker keep you away)

So what can you do during the weekend of September 13th while still avoiding Harvest?

Research to find another alternative festival or local event that interests you and offer to volunteer to help make it better. Like the Silver Wave Film Festival or Run for the Shelters presented by Fredericton Marathon on
Sunday, October 27, 2024!
Support a local northside business. There may be a slight dip in the evenings of people at bars and restos on the northside as everyone flocks downtown. Maybe it's time you finally check out St. James Gate, Coastline Pizza/Half Cut or Neighbourly Coffee
Roadtrip! The annual Queens County Fair is happening in Gagetown
The national champion UNB Men’s hockey year kicks off with an exhibition game.
Take in the 2024 Canadian Lumberjack Championships in Mactaquac.

Harvest Freshmen/Sophomores

Not a Harvest veteran and want to check it out? No worries, there are many volunteers and friendly faces who would gladly provide suggestions, tips and hints on how best to enjoy your week.

Keep in mind that it's not a one-size-fits-all experience. You can decide to do one night or 5 nights. You can decide to only take in free shows or decide to go to every show and grab an Ulitmate pass (some still remain at the time of writing).

Here are tips to optimize your Harvest week:

Download the Harvest app and chart your journey. Read up on all the acts and artists and link directly to their Spotify so you can get in the groove before the shows.
Pre-buy drink tokens to avoid lineups in the tents. They can be purchased at the Kings Place Harvest store.
Remember that everyone at the door, the bartenders, people selling merch, etc. are ALL volunteers. Thank them.
Make your downtown restaurant reservations ASAP. Even the vibe in the restaurants is amazing during Harvest. Not eating at a restaurant? then enjoy the greatest gathering of food trucks in Fredericton. There will be lineups at many vendors so add that extra time into your schedule planning (also your fav food truck will probably increase their pricing for this event so expect a few extra dollars for your donair)
The music doesn't end at the tents, almost every bar will have a Harvest adjacent music programming on the weekend (some pubs starting as early as Wednesday).
Discover new music. Leverage the Harvest Festival Spotify Playlist to help you pick what new band(s) you want to introduce yourselves to. Then book your tickets.
Dress in layers. September nights can be cool and crisp outside and steamy in the tents. Dress for success (partying).
Harvest is family-friendly. Thursday through Saturday, Harvest will host a special 'KidsZone' in front of the NB Sports Hall of Fame. KidsZone will include a Long and McQuade instrument “petting zoo”, craft tables, mural painting, super cool interactive screens, shade tents, picnic tables, yard games, & more! This is in addition to the family favourite buskers
Take an early morning walk downtown. This is one of my favourite Harvest adjacent things to do. The streets are still closed. It is very quiet as partiers sleep in a few extra minutes. Grab a coffee and stroll the empty streets and have a peak at what the layout is like. A stark contrast to the nighttime.
Absorb it. Look around, walk the streets. It really is Fredericton's best event and downtown is transformed into a world-class music festival

Harvest Veterans

Not much to say for the vets, the people who support Harvest year after year come hurricane or high water are the lifeblood of the festival (in addition to the hundreds of volunteers). Here are a few reminders though to get the most out of your festival:

For many, this is like an old home week where you see friends you haven't seen for a year. Move the conversation to the back of the tent or catch up between sets. Respect all of the artists (not just the band you came to see).
The Wilmot Church is an amazing venue for live music and newish to the Harvest festival. Check out some great shows here on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Thank a volunteer.
Make new friends. Introduce yourself.
Take advantage of free (yes….FREE) safe ride home.

Everyone

Enjoy it! If you see something you love, share it. See something that can be improved? Message the Harvest team. The team is very receptive to new ideas, good and bad feedback as everyone looks to improve an already great festival.

Staff Picks

The Fredericton Word staff has listened to countless hours of music since March and has the following suggestions for can’t-miss acts (click the photos for details). You can thank us later.