A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of attending Wake the Giant here in Thunder Bay. And let me tell you: it wasn’t just a festival, it was a movement, a moment of time where everything was magic.

So, what is Wake the Giant?

Back in 2019, a group of local teachers and leaders asked a big question: how can Thunder Bay feel more welcoming, safe, and inclusive for Indigenous people — especially students coming into the city? The answer became a movement, and then a festival.

Wake the Giant is not just about music (though, trust me, the music is unreal). It’s about creating an alcohol-free, family-friendly, safe environment where Indigenous and non-Indigenous people come together, learn, and celebrate. It’s about food, art, culture, and building something better than what we’ve had in the past.

And they’re doing it right.

The lineup? Oh, it’s giant.

Every year, the organizers hire incredible talent to bring world-class music right here to Thunder Bay. This year’s headliner? The Black Eyed Peas. Yes, those Black Eyed Peas. And not only that, but band member Taboo has been a huge supporter of the festival’s mission — backing up its purpose with his own advocacy.

Alongside them in 2025: Prozzäk (hello, late-90s nostalgia), Neon Dreams, Crystal Shawanda, Wyatt C. Louis, G DUBZ, and plenty more. Add in Indigenous performers, student involvement, and cultural showcases, and you’ve got a festival lineup that feels way bigger than our city — in the best way possible.

My experience: dancing, food, and my questionable vocals

Somewhere between enjoying the amazing local food options and screaming the lyrics to songs I didn’t remember correctly, I had a moment of clarity: this is what community feels like.

I danced. I sang (loudly and off-key, thank god it was dark and noisy). I ran into people I hadn’t seen in years. I lived in the moment with friends, surrounded by strangers who didn’t feel like strangers anymore.

And here’s the thing: Wake the Giant keeps getting better. Every year, the organizers raise the bar — with bigger lineups, more cultural experiences, and an even more welcoming atmosphere. They’re not just throwing a party; they’re building a beautiful tradition for our community, something that reflects who we are and who we want to be. Supporting it each year is how we make sure it grows, thrives, and stays part of our city’s story.

Beyond the giant stage

Wake the Giant is one reminder, but it doesn’t stop there. Just last weekend I checked out The Honest Heart Collective playing at Lakehead Beer, and let’s just say my feet are still recovering from the boogie session. It cost me twenty-five bucks, a couple of craft beers, and left me with a pocketful of memories.

There are amazing things happening in Thunder Bay — concerts, markets, art shows, community events. But here’s the kicker: they only stay amazing if we keep showing up.

Your invitation to join in

Life has a way of… well, “life-ing.” We get lost in the sauce of work, laundry, bills, repeat. And before you know it, we’ve forgotten how to have fun. That’s where community events swoop in like a much-needed reminder: get out there, be bold, laugh too loud, dance too hard.

So, here’s my deal with you:

• Put some money aside now for Wake the Giant 2026. This year sold out for good reason, and you don’t want to miss the next one.
• In the meantime, keep your eyes on what’s happening around you. Buy the $25 ticket. Try the food truck. See the local band. Bring your kids, your pals, or just yourself.
• Most importantly: be the catalyst of your own fun. No one else is going to discover the magic for you — you’ve got to take the first step.

Supporting your community isn’t just about charity or obligation. It’s about joy. It’s about connection. It’s about creating a place we want to live in. So next time you see a poster, a Facebook event, or a friend saying, “Hey, you coming to this?” — say yes. Trust me, your future self (sweaty from dancing, full from eating, happy from living) will thank you.