Manitoba country legend Chris Thorsteinson of Doc Walker is bringing back a beloved prairie tradition with the launch of the Fall Ball Tour, a grassroots initiative aimed at reviving small-town socials and reconnecting communities across the province.
Thorsteinson made the announcement sharing his excitement for the project, which kicks off this fall in Alonsa and Oakland, Manitoba.
"We decided we're going to try to bring that back," said Thorsteinson, reminiscing about the spring flings and fall balls that once filled community halls across rural Manitoba. "A lot of small towns used to have Halloween socials, Valentine’s socials, nobody does a lot of that anymore. So, we're starting it up again."
Partnering with fellow country artist Quinton Blair, the first two events will be held on October 25 in Alonsa at the hall and on November 1 at the Oakland Arena.
"If you've ever been to a curling bonspiel in Oakland, you know how much fun it’s going to be," he added. "These small-town events were the heart of the community. It’s time we brought them back.”"
Thorsteinson emphasized the importance of community support for rural clubs, many of which rely on events like these to stay afloat.
"In places like Westbourne, what they make off the bar, 50-50 tickets, and silent auctions, that keeps the heat on all year," he said. "If we lose those curling or skating rinks, that’s when towns start to disappear. We want to help keep them going."
Tickets for the events will be available at local businesses including Portage Supermarket, Panko’s Foods, FFun Motorsports, and Meraki Hair Salon, with posters and QR codes offering online purchase options. Thorsteinson noted that space will be limited due to smaller venues, encouraging fans to buy early.
The Fall Ball Tour is just one piece of a busy schedule for Doc Walker. The band recently returned from a whirlwind trip to the Canadian Country Music Awards (CCMAs) in Kelowna, B.C where Thorsteinson praised the city's hospitality.
"Kelowna did such an amazing job," he said. "They had scooters with horse heads on them, so it looked like you were riding horses, it was hilarious."
Doc Walker is also gearing up to host the Manitoba Country Music Awards again this year.
"I might do a little more homework this time," Thorsteinson joked.
Looking ahead, 2026 marks Doc Walker’s 25th anniversary since the release of their debut album Curve. To celebrate, the band has been in the studio recording new music, including a special collaboration with Canadian country legend Charlie Major.
"I bugged him for weeks to co-write a song," Thorsteinson laughed. "Right before he left the tour bus, he handed me a napkin and said, ‘Here’s your chorus.’ It was beautiful."
With more dates planned the Fall Ball Tour he promises to bring music, memories, and meaningful support to communities across the prairies.
"It's about getting out again," said Thorsteinson. "After everything we’ve all been through, people are tired of Netflix. It’s time to dance again."
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