Exactly 10 years ago Thursday, The Tragically Hip took the stage for their final performance together. And now, a decade later, fans like Donna Newton are excited to relive that unforgettable night and celebrate the band’s enduring legacy.
“Electric, it was very cool and it was very emotional, and it was just a privilege to be there,” said Newton.
That night, 6,700 people packed what is now Slush Puppie Place, while another 25,000 gathered in Market Square to watch the concert on the big screen. And across the country, more than 11.7 million Canadians like Melanie Backman tuned in to watch the band’s final show.
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“Ten years ago, I was in Bobcaygeon, they closed the whole town down, the main street down, and they had screens everywhere filming the last concert. It was great, and when the song Bobcaygeon came on, everyone was going crazy,” said Backman.
Now, three days of free events are bringing that moment — and the music — back to the heart of Kingston. There will be live performances, fan favourites, film, public art and a chance for fans like Danny Toner to come together and celebrate the band’s enduring legacy.
“My understanding is every concert they’ve ever played in Kingston has always had a charitable effect to it, so they’ve done so much for the city of Kingston and kind of put us on the map,” Toner said.
The Hip had a unique way of telling Canadian stories through their songs, making many in Canada feel seen.
“I am an absolute Hip fan,” said Leanne Corea. “They were one of the first bands that me and my friends would listen to, and it always brought us together.”
Forever Hip continues through Saturday, when fans will return to Market Square for a special viewing party of the band’s final Kingston concert.
Gord Downie…forever missed.