55th annual Juno Awards in Hamilton kick off with country and comedy
The Junos have officially kicked off this week and along with them are road closures, events in the Hamilton core, and performances at TD Coliseum.
For the next three days, Hamilton is going to eat, sleep and breathe Junos, as thousands of visitors coming from all over to catch a glimpse of the best in Canadian Media.
It’s all counting down to the award ceremony happening on Sunday at 8 p.m.
The first official music event of the weekend was the Juno kickoff concert that happened Thursday night at The Music Hall on Main St. West.
The concert was filled with talented country music acts, including performances by Kalsey Kulyk, Robyn Ottolini, the James Barker Band, Sacha and Hamilton’s own The Red Hill Valleys.
Across the street at Levity Comedy Club & Lounge, the Juno Comedy Show featured the comedy stylings of Adam Christie, Dave Merheje, Faris Hytiaa, and Charlie Demers.
Each show has set the stage as JUNOfest begins Friday night into Saturday night, at some of Hamilton’s most iconic venues.
The Underground is just one spot where 11 performers will showcase their talents.
WATCH MORE: A look at the events leading up to the Juno Awards
“There’s going to be about 20 to 25,000 unique visitors, and they plan to stay for the week — it’s the whole industry,” said Manager at Hamilton Tourism and Events Ryan McHugh. “They come to Hamilton, stay in our hotel, they shop in our shops, eat in our restaurants, so expect over $12 million in direct economic impact.”
“In addition to the economic impact, it’s really great to celebrate Hamilton just on a national stage, it’s really our day in the spotlight,” said McHugh.
The tents on Bay St. South next to TD Coliseum are up and the road and lane closures are in full swing.
Bay St. South from King St. West to York Blvd. will be closed until Tuesday at 5 p.m.
Lane restrictions on Main St. West went into effect Thursday morning from MacNab St. South to James St. South, and will remain in place until Monday morning.
Starting Saturday morning, there will be some more lane restrictions along Main St. West from Bay St. South to Summers lane.
Hamilton police will also be out in full force with safety top of mind.
“I would advise people, that if they’re coming down here to enjoy the weekend, take some extra time, have some patience,” said Hamilton police Const. Adam Kimber. “There’s going to be an increased presence of officers in, when the event happens on Sunday.”
The City of Hamilton has also launched night guides for Junos weekend that will be out roaming downtown to help with directions, snacks, and phone charging among other duties.
Just look for someone with the blue vest and bright pink hats.
READ MORE: Road closures expected as Hamilton prepares for 55th annual JUNO Awards
