Exclaim! declared Billy Talent were more relevant than ever when they appeared on the cover of our March 2022 issue behind their comeback album, Crisis of Faith. That may have been over two years ago now, but the Mississauga band's free concert this weekend as part of Port Colborne's Canal Days festivities drew more than double their expected attendance — a "chaotic scene" resulting in thousands of attendees storming the fences, according to Niagara Regional Police. At least 15 minor injuries were reported.
The venue at H. H. Knoll Park reached capacity just before 9:30 p.m. on Saturday (August 3), at which point police made the call to close surrounding fences. A crowd of 4,000 to 5,000 people beyond the perimeter then allegedly proceeded to push through, challenging security guards and officers, at least one of whom was left with minor injuries.
Although event organizers decided to shut down alcohol service in the interest of public safety, after consulting with the members of Billy Talent, police decided to let the concert continue if it remained safe to do so. The city had expected the show to draw about 10,000 people, but estimates put the number of attendees from anywhere between 18,000 and 25,000. Several people were taken into custody throughout the evening for causing a disturbance, but all were released unconditionally.
Port Colborne Mayor William Steele said he was "deeply disappointed" [via Global News] with the attendees who rushed the fences, but expressed gratitude for the support of event staff and volunteers, in addition to the response from police and security services. The three-day festival was able to continue on through Sunday (August 4) and Monday (August 5).