Picks and Bricks - The Distillery District

Saddle Up for Fun! The Distillery District is going country!

The Distillery Picks and Bricks Country Festival
Celebrating the best of country culture in the heart of Toronto.

JULY 27 - SEPT 2, 2024

Mosey on down to The Distillery District for The Distillery’s Picks and Bricks Country Festival, on from July 27 – September 2. It will be a rootin’-tootin’, family-friendly celebration of country music, activities, and food. Most activities are free – so giddy up, and come make some country memories!

Boot-Scootin' Live Music

Kick up your heels to live country music acts every day on the Trinity Stage.

Monday to Friday:
3:00 – 7:00 p.m

Saturday and Sunday:
1:00 – 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Shania Twin

Sunday, August 18, 5:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Get ready for a spectacular performance by Shania Twin, the ultimate Shania Twain tribute act. With her uncanny resemblance and spot-on vocal talent, Shania Twin delivers all the hits you love, from “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” to “That Don’t Impress Me Much.”

Jamie Oliver Trio

August 5 - 9, 3:00 - 7:00 p.m.

The Jamie Oliver Trio combines smooth harmonies and masterful musicianship to create a captivating country music experience. Their rich sound and engaging stage presence make them a must-see act, delivering a mix of original songs and classic country covers.

Big Tobacco and The Pickers

August 31, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.

This band brings a gritty, down-home country vibe that’s sure to resonate with fans of classic and outlaw country. Big Tobacco and The Pickers deliver raw, powerful performances with soulful lyrics and robust instrumentation, making them a highlight of the festival.

Colonel Tom Parker & the American Pour

Saturday, August 31, 5:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Colonel Tom & the American Pour is a Toronto-based “hard” country band. Performing a host of original honkytonk tunes alongside a fistful of classic country standards, the Pour delivers dance-ready, hard-drinking songs from country music’s Golden Age.

The Odd Country

September 1, 5:00 - 8:00 p.m.

With their unique take on country music, The Odd Country fuses traditional country with modern influences, creating a sound that is both fresh and familiar. Their quirky style and infectious energy ensure an unforgettable performance that stands out from the rest.

Danny Marks

Saturday Aug 3, 5- 8 pm

Toronto’s Danny Marks, a renowned guitarist, songwriter, and media personality, is known for his humor-filled live shows. A founding member of Edward Bear, he has played with legends like Led Zeppelin and Bo Diddley. Marks hosts BLUZ FM on JAZZ FM91 and performs at festivals and clubs across Southern Ontario.

Mike Chianelli

Saturday Aug 17 5-8 pm

Mike Chianelli, a Neo-Traditional Country singer/songwriter from Georgina, creates soulful music inspired by classic country and his life experiences. Performing with his band, The Lost Truck Drivers, Mike stays true to country, blues, and rockabilly roots. When not on stage, he’s working in the trades or fixing his ride, always ready for the next show.

Stardust Duo

Sat Aug 3 1-4 pm, Sat Aug 17 1-4 pm, Sun Aug 18 1-4 pm, Sun Sept 1 1-4 pm, Mon Sept 2 1-4 pm

Introducing Stardust Duo, featuring Tim Allard and Chelsea McWilliams from The Redhill Valleys. This acoustic cover duo captivates with soulful melodies and harmonies across country, rock, folk, and pop genres. Known for dynamic performances, they enchant audiences at weddings, private events, and more, infusing beloved classics and contemporary hits with warmth and authenticity.

Swingin Blackjacks

Sun Aug 4 5-8 pm

The Swingin’ Blackjacks blend Rockabilly and Jumpin’ Blues with energetic performances and a love for their music. Featuring a mix of originals and carefully selected covers, they play hard at every show, creating memories of rockin’ juke joints, bayou breezes, and distant train whistles. Committed to their music and audience, The Swingin’ Blackjacks deliver a satisfying and memorable experience.

Pure Spirits Saloon

Visit our “Saloon” by stepping through the swinging doors at the Pure Spirits Courtyard Patio (enter Pure Spirits Courtyard from Case Goods Lane)

Open daily from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Enjoy food from the outdoor BBQ and smoker
Catch CBC coverage of the Games on the massive 26’ outdoor screen daily from 12:00 to 9:00 p.m.

Doggie Dress-Up Contest, Presented by Sniffany & Co.

Dress your pup in its country finest every Tuesday from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Meet our photographer in front of Trinity Stage and get your dog’s picture taken.

Our judge’s favourite photo from each week will be selected on Wednesday and the winner receives a $50 gift certificate to Sniffany.

Sing

I Love to SING! is a fun learning session for kids from 8 to 18 to share the excitement and comradery of singing together with some of their favourite tunes. The teachers are among the most celebrated vocal coaches in Canada. Come for one session or for all of them. All are welcome. No experience or training required! Produced in partnership with SING! The Toronto International Vocal Arts Festival.

Wednesdays 12pm – 2pm / July 31, August 7, 14, 21, and 28

Whisky Wednesdays

Whet your whistle with whisky seminars and tastings every Wednesday starting at 7:00 p.m. on the Trinity Stage.

Take a Ride on the Mechanic Bull

Giddy up and give the mechanical bull a whirl every Thursday from 12:00 – 8:00 p.m. in the Pure Spirits Courtyard/Saloon. Waivers required.

Roping Cattle Contest

Show you’ve got the best lasso skills in town every Thursday from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. on the Trinity Stage and rope in a $50 gift card from The Distillery Restaurants Corp.

Line Dancing Lessons

Stomp your boots with free line dancing lessons every Friday from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. in front of the Trinity Stage. This is a guaranteed good time.

Photo Opportunities

Create lasting memories and snap some unforgettable pics at our photo ops, including “Wanted” posters, wooden cowboy boots, a giant 6’ cactus, a massive guitar sculpture, sunflowers and straw bales decorating the entire site.