🚦 TRAFFIC ADVISORY: BOOTS AND HEARTS FESTIVAL – AUGUST 7 TO 9, 2026
(ORILLIA, ON) – The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is advising residents and visitors of anticipated traffic delays and increased vehicle congestion in Oro-Medonte Township due to the annual Boots and Hearts Music Festival taking place at Burl’s Creek Event Grounds from Friday, August 7 through Sunday, August 9, 2026.
The OPP will maintain a visible presence throughout the festival to help ensure public safety, protect property, and facilitate the safe movement of traffic in and around the venue. In addition to police services, event organizers have arranged for on-site medical personnel, private security, and emergency response resources to support festival attendees.
Concertgoers are encouraged to visit www.bootsandhearts.com for important event information, including travel routes, parking details, venue maps, prohibited items, and festival guidelines. Attendees are also encouraged to download the official Boots and Hearts mobile app for real-time updates and event notifications.
Stay Safe in the Summer Heat
With warm temperatures expected throughout the festival weekend, attendees are reminded to:
• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated
• Wear sunscreen and appropriate clothing
• Seek shade and take breaks from prolonged sun exposure
• Watch for signs of heat-related illness among family and friends
Festival Safety Tips
To help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, patrons are encouraged to:
• Respect other attendees, event staff, and local residents
• Be patient when entering and exiting the venue
• Consume alcohol responsibly
• Arrange a safe ride home before attending
• Report suspicious activity or emergencies to event staff, security personnel, or police
Traffic and Travel Considerations
Motorists travelling in and around Oro-Medonte Township during the festival should expect higher-than-normal traffic volumes, particularly during peak arrival and departure periods.
The OPP reminds drivers to:
• Allow extra time for travel
• Obey all posted speed limits and traffic signs
• Never drive while impaired by alcohol or drugs
• Avoid aggressive driving behaviours, including speeding, tailgating and unsafe lane changes
• Always wear a seatbelt and ensure all passengers are properly restrained
Festival attendees are encouraged to carpool whenever possible to help reduce congestion.
For venue directions, transportation information, and parking details, visit www.bootsandhearts.com/gettinghere.
The OPP thanks residents, visitors, and festival attendees for their patience and cooperation and wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable Boots and Hearts Music Festival weekend.
