New music festival to bring the groove to Guy Lombardo Pavilion

Tucked away at the eastern edge of Springbank Park, the Guy Lombardo Pavilion isn't exactly top-of-mind when Londoners think of an outdoor music venue.

Joel Richer aims to change that with HRZN Fest, a new two-day festival of music and food set to happen Aug. 8 and 9.

"We felt there was an opportunity to bring something new to the festival market that Londoners hadn't seen before," he said. "That beach club vibe with great music, great food with a Mediterranean feel to it. It's a very underutilized space in the city."

Richer is co-owner of 4est Brewery and also owns Bulles et Bières, which sets up mobile bars at events.

In working at various festivals and events over the years, he felt London could use a new outdoor music festival in the city's west end. Guy Lombardo Pavilion, an open-air covered patio almost 5,000 square feet in size, struck him as the perfection location.

The pavilion is part of Springbank Park but with vehicle access off Wonderland Road, not the park's main entrance off Commissioner's Road West.

"It's a fantastic venue to put something on like this," said Richer.

He said the visitor experience at HRZN (pronounced "Horizon") will be unique, with DJs on both nights, multiple drink stations and light installations he promises will be "very Instagrammable."

There will be a cocktail bar, beer garden and a wine and cheese station.

And while entrance to the event is free, there will also be private cabanas with bottle service at an extra charge.

Although alcohol will be served, it's an all-ages event. Everyone will have to show ID upon entry and anyone 19 and older will get a bracelet allowing them to buy alcohol.

On both nights, the event will wind up at 11 p.m. with a 4 p.m. start time on the first day and a noon start the second day.

Parking at Guy Lombardo Pavilion is limited. Richer encourages everyone who can to avoid bringing their vehicle.

"There's a big need and want for something like this," said Richer. "If it goes well we see this as a recurring event."

Richer is also looking into using the Lombardo Pavilion for an Oktoberfest event in the fall, complete with picnic tables and Bavarian food and beer.

You can get more information about HRZN Fest on its Instagram page or here.