Kitchener celebrates children’s entertainer Erick Traplin

Local icon and musician Erick Traplin was honoured in his very own 'Erick Traplin Day' in at city hall in Kitchener for 35 years in children's entertainment.

Erick Traplin was honoured Sunday for his 35-year career entertaining children in Waterloo Region.

The City of Kitchener organized the event at Carl Zehr Square for families, many of whom shared fond memories of the multi-generational musician.

“I can’t imagine myself here just one month ago, let alone [35 years ago]. This is just amazing,” Traplin told CTV News backstage. “I’m just totally blown away by this. I wasn’t expecting it at all until I found out a couple of weeks ago. I’ve been trying to wrap my head around it ever since.”

Traplin was born in Owen Sound but has lived in Waterloo Region since he was 12 years old. His first performance for children was in 1989, a gig he landed through a musician’s union he belonged to. That’s when he got hooked.

“I said yes, and went up to Walkerton and played a kids show and realized I love doing it,” Traplin recalled. “At the beginning of my career, I was doing kids and adult [shows] and then it wasn’t until just after Covid hit that I decided to drop the adult stuff and just stick to the kids. The kids are certainly the biggest part of my business and it’s my joy.”

Kids of all ages love his catchy songs, like “Bubbles” and “Sailing on a Pirate Ship.”

Jamie Theodosiou, who brought his two kids to Sunday’s celebration, wanted to introduce them to a local musician, one he also had the pleasure of listening to as a kid.

“I saw Eric the first time in grade school, over at Bridgeport Public School,” he said. “I chose to bring my kids here today because I thought it was a good chance to get involved with the community and see how we recognize our local heroes and take part in the activities here.”

Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic is also a fan of Traplin.

“I’ve been around on council for 30 years. I probably have been to one of his original concerts but, certainly over the years, I’ve seen him at events immeasurable to count,” he said. “Children of all ages have always loved him, his songs, the messages in them and of course, some of our favorites. One of my personal favourites [is] the Bubbles song.”

Vrbanovic said the event was one way the community could show its appreciation.

“He has really had an impact on literally thousands of kids growing up in our community, impacted two generations of young people’s lives,” the mayor explained. “[It] really was an opportunity for the community to say thank you to him. Thank you to his family for sharing him with us and really celebrating and giving him a little joy back for all the joy he’s given.”

Attendees were also treated to several performances, including Traplin himself. There were also food stands, a mini-golf course, face painting, inflatable bouncy houses and obstacle courses.

King Charles III’s Coronation Medal and other gifts

The celebration was not the only way Traplin was honoured on Sunday.

He was given a Coronation Medal from King Charles III, an award given to those who have had a significant impact on in their community or country.

“I was like, ‘What?’” Traplin told CTV News. “I’m just blown away by how this community has treated me and I’m so grateful and blessed to be living in this area.”

The entertainer was also given a certificate and a street sign with his name on it by Vrbanovic, as well as an Oktoberfest hat.

Traplin said he doesn’t see himself retiring from the job anytime soon.

“I want to play for a couple more generations, that’s what I want to do,” he said. “Because a lot of the kids out here, they’re bringing their kids out to my shows and they know the words to all my songs, so it’s just wonderful.”