Fans of the Tragically Hip pack Regina bars for final show

The Tragically Hip bowed out Saturday night.

The band played the final show of their farewell tour in Kingston, Ontario and Canadians tuned in to see it live.

Many fans of the band turned up at the Capitol in downtown Regina to take in the final show on a big screen.

Shawn Stevenson was one of those fans and he said this final show was a big deal.

“It’s a national event, it’s our second Canada Day, that’s what’s bringing me out.”

Stevenson had high praise for lead singer Gord Downie, saying his career is one of the best in art, music and rock in Canada.

Peter Fourlas another fan also had very kind words for Downie.

“Canada’s losing an icon … Gordon Downie is an amazing lyricist, he’s a great singer.”

Fourlas added he feels that in Canada the Tragically Hip should be held near and dear to everyone’s hearts.

Marc Milette, another fan who came out to take in the show, said the night is a bitter sweet one for him.

“I am excited to see the show, but at the same time, it’s grievous … knowing what Gordy’s state is.”

Milette said part of what brought him out was he wanted to show support for Downie and what he is going through.

For fans like Mitchell Pockett, who were not able to get tickets to see the band on their farewell tour, a get together like this is nice.

“It makes it a little better, this is the best outcome I could ask for.”