Smiths Falls Council heard good news this week as the Downtown Business Association (DBA) reported a strong year of summer events that brought thousands of people downtown.
BIA Chair Christin Storms told council the DBA’s marquee events — including the night market, the summer music series, the music festival and the breakout hit bike nights — helped bring new energy and big crowds into the core.
Coordinator Megan McIlvenna told LanarkLeedsToday.ca bike nights were the biggest surprise.
The DBA estimates the series generated about $100,000 in direct profits for downtown businesses.
The popular Downtown Summer Music Festival also drew strong support.
It was highlighted by a packed outdoor Road Apples concert on Main Street that showcased local bands and the town’s growing music scene.
McIlvenna said the success belongs to the community and the 140 downtown businesses that helped make the season possible.
She told council the DBA is already planning for 2026, including the return of bike nights — with one landing on Canada Day — and a new slate of events to be announced soon.
