Chowing down in Thunder Bay
Discover a diverse Northwest Ontario food scene
By Tamara Hinson
Sounds of The Bag Pipes from Hillcrest Park, Free Concerts Thursdays in July
Fans of Celtic music or the bag pipes should plan to visit Hillcrest Park on any Thursday night this July when in Thunder Bay this summer.
Every summer the Macgillivray Pipe Band presents free concerts to the masses. Grab a lawn chair, bring a jacket in case the wind blows in off Lake Superior and take an hour out of your schedule to relax and enjoy a set of traditional Scottish tunes in one of Thunder Bay's most picturesque parks. Hillcrest Park is known for its great view of the Sleeping Giant and Lake Superior overlooking the city.
A Band of World Renown
The Macgillivray Pipe Band is one of the oldest private pipe bands in North America, having been founded in 1917.
They have quite a pedigree that includes performing for the Queen, Canadian Prime Ministers and other dignitaries. In 1972 the band marched in the world famous Rose Bowl Parade and have been invited to play on stage during local concerts by such bands as The Barenaked Ladies.
The Macgillivray Pipe Band has earned awards at many competitions including the Scottish World Festival in Toronto.
Thursday Night Concerts at Hillcrest Park
The Thursday night performances start at 7:30 p.m. and last about one hour. Their set includes such classics as Amazing Grace, Scotland the Brave, Green Hills, When The Battle Is O’er, and Auld Lang Syne.
The dates of their 2013 performances at Hillcrest Park are July 5, 12, 19 and 26; and are all weather permitting.
Recommended Articles
12 Best Places to Stay in Thunder Bay
A boutique courthouse, art-filled hostel, or a luxe waterfront hotel—TBay has accommodations for every taste.
5 Fantastic Ways to Explore the Water in Thunder Bay
Paddle, sail, SUP, and more along the north shore of Lake Superior.
Experience Your Perfect Summer in Thunder Bay
An A to Z guide to outdoor adventure in this scenic Northern Ontario city
Uncovering Thunder Bay's Hidden Gems
7 Little-Known Spots to Discover in TBay
21 Ways to Enjoy Thunder Bay
Why 2024 is your year to visit this fabulous northern Ontario City.
The Remembrance Poppy and its Thunder Bay Roots
How an iconic downtown hotel helped launch this time-honoured tradition.
This new cruise ship sails into Thunder Bay
There's a new ship in town! Check out the Great Lakes Explorer.
“It was instant panic. Why am I doing this?”
Keeping cool with cold plunges and cryotherapy.
Search Thunder Bay
Why You Should Always Travel With Fishing Gear in Thunder Bay
7 amazing fishing spots right in the city.
The Best Ways to Experience Winter in Thunder Bay
Ice fishing, skating trails, and cozy craft beers—this northwest Ontario city is a must for winter adventurers.
Discover Thunder Bay
5 Ways to Create the Perfect Mountain Bike Vacation in Thunder Bay
A New urban market in the heart of downtown Thunder Bay
Goods and Co. makes shopping local easy
Discover What’s New in Thunder Bay
From rainbow hot dogs to a massive patio expansion in the Waterfront District, here's what's new and hot right now. Hint: It's hot sauce.
A Day Tripper's Guide to Nipigon
The most northerly freshwater port in North America boasts a ton of small-town charm.
Eating pancakes to save history
The future of Thunder Bay’s Hoito lies on your plate
How far would you drive for a buttertart?
Check out these 4 Thunder Bay day trips.
The 5 Best Sights to See in Thunder Bay
From the legendary Sleeping Giant to Indigenous art galleries these Thunder Bay attractions are not to be missed.
6 great hiking trails in and around Thunder Bay
Hike the famous Sleeping Giant or the Flett railway tunnel in this Northwest Ontario city.
An Epic Road Trip to Thunder Bay
Two weeks, five stopovers, and one incredible adventure in Northern Ontario