The Trews (photo courtesy The Trews Facebook Page)
Music fans in Smiths Falls are getting ready for a major night of live music this fall after the The Trews were announced as the headlining act for the 2026 Downtown Music Festival.
The Smiths Falls Downtown Business Association revealed the news this week, confirming the popular Canadian rock group will take the Main Street West stage on Saturday, Sept. 12.
DBA coordinator Megan McIlvenna says the booking came together thanks to the hard work and vision of the association’s events team.
The Trews rose to national fame in the early 2000s with hit songs including Not Ready to Go, which remains a staple of Canadian rock.
McIlvenna says the festival will once again feature music throughout downtown.
Tickets for the Downtown Music Festival go on sale March 13 at noon at downtownsf.ca, with a limited supply also available at Beautiful Full Figure Boutique and Impression Printing.
McIlvenna says lovers of turn of the millennium Canadian rock will be thrilled.
The group is also known for it’s Anthem “Highway of Heroes” honouring the Canadian Armed Forces. The song feature WOW FM’s own BK playing the bagpipes.
Organizers say more updates will be shared through Downtown Smiths Falls social media channels as the event approaches.
Other performers announced:
One Eyed Dawgs
Hailing from Smiths Falls, One Eyed Dawgs deliver high-energy rock covers spanning The Rolling Stones, Billy Idol, The Black Crowes and Simple Minds. Their nostalgic setlist and powerful stage presence make them a crowd favourite wherever they play.
Spencer Scharf
A true one-man band, Spencer Scharf blends fingerstyle guitar, banjo, mandolin, ukulele, harmonica and keyboard with smooth tenor vocals. Inspired by artists like Neil Young and Leo Kottke, his sound mixes folk, rock, blues and bluegrass energy.
DaNielle Hewitt
Smiths Falls artist DaNielle Hewitt brings powerhouse vocals and a unique performance style using a 7-string guitar, stomp pedal and looper to create a full-band sound live. Her music blends folk, pop, rock and even heavy metal influences.
Landon Bedor
The 19-year-old singer-songwriter from small-town Ontario combines country roots with a soulful rock edge. Discovered by award-winning musicians at age 12, Bedor has since developed his craft while also completing Berklee College of Music’s Music Business Fundamentals program.
Vicki Brittle
Ottawa Valley folk-rock artist Vicki Brittle is known for her powerful vocals and reflective songwriting. She has opened for artists including Sass Jordan and Logan Staats and performed at major festivals such as Ottawa Bluesfest and Festival of Small Halls.