Here are some important things to remember when heading to Stars and Thunder this week.
The City of Timmins says there are some rules and information that anyone going to the festival should be aware of.
The city says parking will be very limited downtown, but there will be free parking for out of town visitors on Vipond Road and the Spruce Street South snowdump. There will be a shuttle from these parking lots to the festival grounds. Transit and Handy Transit will be free all week from noon until midnight, with all day free transit on Canada Day. Click here for shuttle and bus information.
The city adds that the festival is completely accessible. It says it wanted to ensure that everyone could attend so there is an accessible entrance, pathways, viewing platform and washrooms. One caretaker or family member will be allowed to use the designated accessible entrances and platforms. All support people must pay full admission as well. There will also be volunteers who will be able to help those in need.
You must have a ticket and a wristband to get into the festival. For people with week long passes, you must have your bracelet on. The city says some people may have to take the bracelet off for work, so it has come up with a solution. Those needing to take it off can get a pick-up card, where staff will record a photo ID number, at the merchandise trailer. When you go to re-enter the grounds you must bring the pick-up card, associated photo ID and the removed wristband. All tickets are available for upgrades and can be purchased at the gates.
There are water bottle re-fill stations this year. The city says you are allowed to bring in a completely clear, plastic and empty water bottle into the park. The bottle can not have any colour tint to it. The city says this is so security can easily see into the bottle if needed.
Smoking, including vaping, is not permitted in the general park, but there will be a designated smoking area. There is also a list of items you are not allowed to bring in including:
- Illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia
- Aerosol cans
- Outside food or beverage
- Glass and metal bottles and cans
- Coolers
- Cameras and video cameras
- Megaphones
- Musical instruments
- Fireworks, Flags and banners
- Beach balls, Soccer Balls, Frisbees (etc.)
- Umbrellas
- Skateboards
- Animals (except service animals, however, due to the loud nature of the event, we do not recommend bringing service animals)
- Large backpacks
- Tents
- Laser pointers, Selfie sticks or similar monopods
- Items intended for sale or promotion
- Firearms, Knives or Weapons of any kind, any object that can be used to cause bodily harm
- Drones
- Remote controlled toys
- Wagons
The city says you are allowed to bring chairs onto the grounds. Click here for a description of chairs that are permitted.
Timmins City Hall says it wants to ensure that everyone has a safe and fun time this year.