In the weeks that followed the 2024 edition of Sommo festival, I came to discover the greatness of Fritz (otherwise known as Old Time Hawkey). From that opening “Well, Hello Buddy”, to his low-fi ASMR cooking demonstrations, it’s like a warm hug from an old friend. That soothing patter makes everything better, so when it was announced that he was returning to Sommo for the 2025 edition,  we made sure to add his appearance to our Sommo Musts list. An added bonus to that culinary stage presentation was the fact that it was hosted by none other than Canadian legend Chef Michael Smith. Much like his Tik Tok videos, Fritz was warm and engaging, and throughout his time, was hucking cookbooks (and/or limes) out into the crowd. It was well worth the wait to hear that iconic “Well, Hello Buddy” in person.

Old Time Hawkey