BScene

Watermelon Summer with Lunar Webb Vendor Market
Story and Photography by: Jason Freeze

Vendors and guests gathered together on Saturday, August 1st for a fun rendition of the Lunar Webb Vendor Market with their Watermelon Market at the Polish Hall Brantford. As always, there was a wide variety of vendors with items from shirts to jewelry and soaps to art.

Make sure to Be Seen shopping locally at their next Vendor Market event!

The Jim Cuddy Band Expands Fall Tour With More Ontario Dates
- Canadian music icon brings the Jim Cuddy Band to Orillia, Brantford, Peterborough and Blyth this November
Submitted Media Release

Jim Cuddy, one of Canada’s most celebrated singer-songwriters and a defining voice in Canadian music, will bring the Jim Cuddy Band, with special guest Billianne, the acclaimed Canadian singer-songwriter known for her soulful, genre-spanning sound, to Ontario communities this November for a series of live performances.

The 2026 Ontario tour will visit Orillia, Brantford, Peterborough and Blyth, giving audiences across the province the opportunity to experience Cuddy and his band performing songs from his acclaimed solo career alongside the unmistakable sound and storytelling that have made him a Canadian music favourite.

2026 Ontario Tour Dates
Nov 19 - Orillia Opera House, Orillia, ON
Nov 21 - Sanderson Centre, Brantford, ON
Nov 24 - Showplace Theatre, Peterborough, ON
Nov 27 - Blyth Memorial Hall, Blyth, ON

Tickets go on sale on September 24 at 10AM.

Few artists have shaped the soundtrack of Canadian life like Jim Cuddy. As the unmistakable voice behind countless beloved songs and a founding member of Blue Rodeo, Cuddy brings his celebrated solo career to the stage with music from his acclaimed album All the World Fades Away.

Reflective, heartfelt and deeply resonant, the album draws from a lifetime of memories while celebrating the richness of the present moment. “Yes, this album is about looking back,” Cuddy says. “However, I tried to make sure the record is affirming of life as it is now, reflecting how much I like where I’m at today. It’s not wrapping up or being nostalgic for old times. It’s just… surveying.” The album explores relationships, memories and the emotions that stay with us, including the powerful “Impossible,” a song about the undying love a parent has for their child.

After more than four decades in Canadian music, Cuddy continues to evolve as a songwriter, describing his songs as “short stories.” A winner of 15 JUNO Awards, a member of the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and an Officer of the Order of Canada, he brings his signature warmth, storytelling and outstanding band to Ontario audiences this November for an evening celebrating one of Canada’s most enduring musical voices.

Additional information and tickets are available through Jimcuddy.com or www.theconcertfactory.ca

City of Brantford to Observe National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, 2026
Submitted Media Release

On Wednesday, September 30, 2026, the City of Brantford will join communities across Canada to recognize and observe National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This day was created to honour First Nations, Inuit and Métis survivors, their families and communities, and to provide an important opportunity for Canadians to remember the victims of the Indian Residential School System and to reflect on the painful lasting impacts on Residential School survivors, their families and Indigenous communities.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation falls on the same day as Orange Shirt Day, inspired by the story of Phyllis Webstad, a former residential school student who had her orange shirt taken away on her first day at residential school. Wearing orange on September 30 honours and remembers the experiences and loss of Indigenous children who were taken from their homes.

Local Events in Observance of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

To demonstrate our solidarity with Indigenous communities, and to promote Indigenous culture, the City of Brantford has partnered with Brant Native Housing to host the fourth annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Powwow Event on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Mohawk Park (51 Lynwood Drive) from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. This free event will feature Indigenous drumming, dancing, singing, vendors and food, while supplies last.

All are welcome to join the Woodland Cultural Centre (184 Mohawk Street) for a day of reflection, learning, culture and community as we mark National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Wednesday, September 30, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This September 30th marks the one-year anniversary of the unveiling of the former Mohawk Institute Residential School as an Interpretive Historic Site. The Centre is offering a full day of programming that includes speeches, tours, film screenings, art activities, a vendor market and more. Registration is required. Learn more at the Woodland Cultural Centre’s website.

To learn more about National Truth and Reconciliation Day, please visit www.Brantford.ca/NDTR.

Continuing the Conversation

Wilfrid Laurier University’s Brantford Campus, in partnership with the City of Brantford, developed a free Introduction to Indigenous Matters course. Since its launch in January 2025, over 2,000 individuals have registered for the course to learn more about Indigenous peoples, experiences, history and culture.

Developed by subject matter experts in the Department of Indigenous Studies, Law and Social Justice at Wilfrid Laurier University’s Brantford Campus, this self-directed online course provides learners with a foundational overview of Indigenous Studies, exploring key themes such as land, language, identity and community structures. With unlimited registration, participants can complete the 6-to-8-hour course at their own pace. At the end of the course, they will receive a Certificate of Completion from Wilfrid Laurier University. To access course registration, visit bit.ly/IndigenousMatters.

The City also recently partnered with Niwasa Kendaaswin Teg to announce the opening of a new Indigenous Youth Hub to support Indigenous youth ages 13 to 17. Through academic support, cultural and recreational activities, traditional teachings, and skill-building initiatives, the hub provides opportunities for growth by focusing on the four fires that include mind, body, spirit, and emotion. The program operates after school and on occasional weekends, offering a range of services. For up-to-date information and details about dates, locations and program activities, visit Niwasa’s page or email [email protected].

City of Brantford Schedule Changes

For the public’s information, some City service schedule changes will be in place to observe the upcoming National Truth and Reconciliation Day on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. There are no changes to the collection of regularly scheduled green bin, garbage and recycling.

City facilities and services that are open or operating on Wednesday, September 30, 2026

Brantford Transit and Brantford Lift
- Brantford Transit will offer regular service on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.
- Brantford Lift will offer regular service on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

Bell Homestead National Historic Site
The Bell Homestead National Historic Site and The Exchange Café will be open on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

City of Brantford Community Centres and Arenas

- Branlyn Community Centre will be open on Wednesday, September 30, 2026
- TD Civic Centre will be open on Wednesday, September 30, 2026
- Doug Snooks Eagle Place Community Centre will be open on Wednesday, September 30, 2026
- Lions Park Arena will be open on Wednesday, September 30, 2026
- T.B. Costain/SC Johnson Community Centre will be open on Wednesday, September 30, 2026
- Woodman Park Community Centre will be open on Wednesday, September 30, 2026

Mohawk Street Landfill
The Mohawk Street Landfill will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

Walter Gretzky Municipal Golf Course and Wally’s Grill and Patio
The Walter Gretzky Municipal Golf Course and Learning Centre, driving range, Pro Shop and Wally’s Grill and Patio will be open on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. Tee off times begin at 7:30 a.m. with the last tee time at 5:15 p.m. Tee times can be booked online at www.Brantford.ca/Golf. The Pro Shop and driving range are open from 8 a.m. to dusk. Wally’s Grill and Patio is open for anyone to enjoy family-friendly fare from 10 a.m. to dusk.

Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre
The Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre (including Brantford and Area Sports Hall of Recognition and Discover Brantford Desk) will be open on Wednesday, September 30, 2026

City Facilities and Services that are Closed Wednesday, September 30, 2026

Brantford City Hall, Customer Service and Parking Enforcement Office
Brantford City Hall at 58 Dalhousie Street will close at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, and reopen on Thursday, October 1 at 8:30 a.m. While closed, all customer service calls will be routed to the City’s after-hours customer service provider.

Brantford Public Libraries
All City of Brantford library branches will be closed on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

Cemetery Services
The Brantford Cemetery Main Office will be closed on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

Ontario Works Brantford-Brant Main Office
The Ontario Works Brantford-Brant main office at 225 Colborne Street will be closed on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

Online Services Reminder
Many City services can be requested using one of our comprehensive online forms, that can be conveniently accessed on the City’s website at Brantford.ca/RequestService.

Event of the Day!
Make sure to Be Seen dressing up and celebrating our local heroes during the 8th Annual Heroes Walk & Roll Fundraiser in support of Lansdowne Children's Centre at Brant Park today!

8th Annual Heroes Walk and Roll Fundraiser Lansdowne Children's Centre is inviting the entire community to come together in support of infants, children and youth, facing communication,

Music in the Square - Mystyx
Story and Photography by: Jason Freeze

Harmony Square Brantford was full of music once again on Friday, July 31st for the Music in the Square summer series featuring Mystyx. The group performed a number of hits from their Classic Rock, Country, and Blues/Jazz repertoire.

Congratulations to everyone involved on another concert in the Square!

Mackenzie Creek Music Festival 2026
Story and Photography by: Jason Freeze

The South Brant Legion was rocking up a storm for their annual Mackenzie Creek Music Festival during the weekend of Saturday, July 25th. The event saw a wide variety of bands come out to perform throughout the weekend as well as campers joining in, breakfast on Sunday and some fun activities.

Congratulations to everyone involved on another year of music and community!

Life is Grand at The Grand Parade 2026!
Submitted Media Release - Photo by: Dave Lewis

Kiwanis Field was filled with smiles, cheers, memories and community spirit as more than 100 people walked together at The Grand Parade 2026, supporting the Grand River Council on Aging (GRCOA) on Saturday, September 19th.

The Grand Parade brought together teams from across our community. Some were named after team captains who gathered friends and family to walk alongside them, while others walked in honour or memory of loved ones who had made a lasting difference in their lives. Teams also represented community organizations, service groups and care providers. Together, they reflected the many friendships, families and community connections that make The Grand Parade so special.

Throughout the morning, walkers of all ages and abilities completed up to six laps of the Kiwanis Field Track at their own pace. Off the track, the celebration continued with a photo booth, raffle, Kids Zone, refreshments and plenty of opportunities to reconnect with old friends and make new ones.

With 22 teams, 40 volunteers and more than $39,100 raised toward GRCOA’s $40,000 goal by event day, The Grand Parade demonstrated what can happen when a community comes together.

GRCOA extends special thanks to Aspira Brants Landing Retirement Living, our 2026 Lead Sponsor, and the Kiwanis Club of Brantford, which once again welcomed the community to Kiwanis Field.

We are also grateful to our sponsors and community partners, including Ears to You Mobile Hearing Clinic, Skyline Living, CareRx, Move with Cindy and Mindy, Guitar & Associates, AgePro, Genie Senior Services and BScene, as well as the many businesses and individuals who donated prizes, goods, services and time.

Funds raised through The Grand Parade support GRCOA initiatives that help older adults remain informed, engaged and connected, including Community at Home virtual workshops, the Age-Friendly Calendar, Seniors Housing Guide, Seniors Discount Directory, bi-weekly newsletter and online Info Hub.

The Grand Parade is about more than fundraising. It is about celebrating people, sharing stories across generations and building a community where everyone can remain connected, valued and involved throughout their lives.

Donations will be accepted until Oct 31, 2026

Life is Grand!

About the Grand River Council on Aging
The Grand River Council on Aging is a registered charitable non-profit organization dedicated to creating an age-friendly community for people “from 5 to 105.” Through education, awareness, community partnerships and volunteer-led initiatives, GRCOA works to help people remain informed, engaged and connected as they age.

For more information about the Grand River Council on Aging, visit www.grcoa.ca.

Grand Erie Public Health Confirms First Human Case of West Nile Virus this Season
Submitted Media Release

Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) has been notified of a Brantford resident who has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV).

While most people who are bitten by an infected mosquito do not become ill, West Nile virus can cause serious illness in some people. Older adults and people with underlying health conditions are at greater risk of developing severe illness.

Residents are encouraged to take precautions to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites, particularly from early evening to morning, when mosquitoes are most active and likely to bite, and when spending time in shady, wooded areas.

To reduce the risk of mosquito bites:
- Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants made of tightly woven fabric.
- Apply an approved insect repellent, such as one containing DEET, when spending time outdoors.
- Get rid of water-filled containers and other objects around your home where mosquitoes can breed. Change the water in birdbaths at least once a week.
- Avoid spending time outdoors from early evening to morning, when mosquitoes are most active and likely to bite, and take extra precautions when in shady, wooded areas.

In 2025, two human cases of West Nile virus were reported in the GEPH region. So far this season, two mosquito pools have also tested positive for West Nile virus.

Residents are encouraged to continue taking precautions against mosquito bites throughout the mosquito season.

For more information about West Nile virus, please visit geph.ca/west-nile

Event of the Day!
Make sure to Be Seen enjoying all the displays during the annual Once Upon a Quilt event at the Best Western Brantford Hotel and Conference Centre this weekend!

Once Upon a Quilt 2026 BHQG is holding a quilt show on Friday September 25 10am-6pm & Saturday September 26 10am-4pm at Best Western Plus.

Brant County Chamber After Hours Showcased New Child & Family Services Facilities
Story and Photography by: Thomas Clare

On Wednesday, September 16, 2026, The County of Brant Chamber of Commerce After Hours event brought members of the local business community together for an evening of networking, conversation and community connection while showcasing the new facilities of Child and Family Services of Grand Erie & Child and Family Services of Grand Erie Foundation.

The event was co-hosted with BScene Entertainment and Community Guide, adding another local community connection to the evening.

Attendees were welcomed by Child & Family Services of Grand Erie and had the opportunity to take part in guided tours of the organization’s new facilities. During the tours, guests were able to see the new spaces firsthand and learn more about how the facilities supported the organization’s work with children, youth, and families.

Representatives from Child & Family Services of Grand Erie also provided information about the services and programs offered by the organization. The presentations gave attendees a better understanding of the support available to children, youth and families, and the organization’s role within the community.

Following the tours and presentations, attendees had an opportunity to network with local business owners, professionals and community leaders. Guests exchanged introductions, shared ideas, and discussed their businesses and organizations in a relaxed setting.

The evening provided a valuable opportunity for the local business community to learn more about Child & Family Services of Grand Erie while also making new professional connections.

The September 16 Chamber After Hours gathering successfully combined business networking, community education and a behind-the-scenes look at the new facilities, giving attendees a closer look at the important services provided to children and families throughout the region.