Hamilton’s Sew Hungry festival returns to Ottawa Street with food and music

Sew Hungry has been shutting down Ottawa Street in Hamilton for over a decade. The street festival aims to bring attention to local eats and businesses in the area.

“It’s our busiest day of the year and we love to see so many people come out to the street just to have a good time,” said Molly, who works at the festival. Molly’s connection to the event has come full circle. “I remember coming here when I was a kid. I was probably like maybe 14 or 15. I came here to Ottawa Street and I loved it. Now I work here so it all works out.”

The big draw has always been the food, with something unique to try every year.

“Moms always have everything, so it was my thing to be like — more quality time, so I invited my mom out,” said one spectator. “She comes out every year, meets up and we walk down Ottawa Street and get treats together.”

However, some attendees noticed a dip in the number of food trucks available this year. One person noted that while trucks used to line both sides of the street, they are now positioned down the centre with fewer options.

Two local food trucks — The Dirty South and Stuffed Hand Crafted Perogies — opted out of participating in the festival this year, citing rising costs and fees. The Ottawa Street BIA, which runs the festival, responded this week in an Instagram post, pointing out that their own costs have also increased.

“It’s true that fees were lower a decade ago. The event has grown in scope, and costs have risen dramatically since then,” the post stated. “Vendor fees were increased to accommodate those rising costs and keep the event safe and viable.”

Despite the changes, vendors like Tropic Love continue to return for the exposure the festival provides, marking their fifth year at the event.

“We like coming out here to connect with people, creating a fun energetic vibe, and serving people with our fresh fruit drinks,” said Baljeet from Tropic Love. “Seeing them enjoy it instantly brings joy to us.”

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