The Hip Experience, billed as Canada’s ultimate Tragically Hip tribute band, entertained crowds during HipFest on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
The event marked the first year for HipFest, with the band Backburner as the opening act, followed by The Hip Experience.
The performance marked a personal milestone, a decade of Backburner’s current lineup. Greg Bie, who joined the group ten years ago, talked about how he met with the band. While the other members grew up together in Brantford, he connected with the band through attending university and then forming the current arrangement.
“Thanks very much to the City of Brantford. We love the city, Brantford. They’ve been very good to us over the last ten years, and we hope they keep us in mind for other stuff,” said Steve Hughes, guitarist for Backburner.
Mike Mears, representing the sponsors, said the turnout reflected strong community support for HipFest.
“It’s great when you can do something like this that’s free to the community, and everybody in the community can come down and enjoy the music,” said Mears.
Natalie Walker, who attended the event with her husband, said they are longtime fans of The Tragically Hip and came out to reminisce.
“It’s very nostalgic,” said Walker. “It’s really nice to see this many people downtown in Harmony Square, and that the downtown is hosting events like this. It’s nice to see and would love to see more of them.”
