Folk Fest tips for first-timers
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 07/02/2019 (1576 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
As a fairly recent attendee of the Winnipeg Folk Fest held each summer in Birds Hill Provincial Park, I’d like to share my experience with those of you who have never partaken in the experience but may be thinking about it.
About five years ago a friend convinced me to come out for a day. It was warm and sunny, the music was so good, and I found myself wishing I had planned to attend all four days. Since then, I’ve been hooked.
For those of us in Transcona, we are fortunate that the park is a short drive away. While many folks camp there, I prefer to drive each day since it’s only a 20-minute commute. Parking is well organized with attendants directing traffic.
During the day there are many stages featuring artists at the same time. Once the performers list is announced on the Folk Fest website, I take the time to read about them and click on the links to sample their music. From there, I rate them and that helps me determine which stage I need to be at.
My check list for a successful day: Comfortable clothing and footwear, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water spritzer (to keep me cool), beach chair (no taller than two feet) with straps so I can carry it on my back and pockets to store all my stuff, tarp for reserving spot at main stage evening shows, refillable water bottle, snacks, cash, rain poncho (compact cheap plastic one), cell phone and my ticket!
The food vendors offer a wide variety of decently priced delicious food served on compostable dishes. I like to sample something different each night.
The best part of the festival for me is the overall vibe. Being outside among the trees in the fresh air, the camaraderie among the people and of course the fabulous music really makes for a relaxed atmosphere. I also love the great selection of amazingly talented musicians, that “wow” moment when I discover somebody new who exceeds my expectations, and getting back together with friends to eat supper on our tarp at the main stage to compare notes on how our day went.
There is so much more to the festival such as children’s entertainment, two main areas where you can enjoy an alcoholic beverage, unique hand-crafted vendors, and others that you have to check out their website for more information: https://www.winnipegfolkfestival.ca/tickets/
This year’s Winnipeg Folk Fest is July 11 to 14, 2019. Tickets are on sale now. You can get a four-day pass, or a single day admission and if you purchase before April 30 you will receive a discount.
If you’ve never been, I highly recommend you check it out, especially if you are a music lover. With proper planning, you’re almost guaranteed to have a phenomenal experience.
Suzanne Hunter is a community correspondent for Transcona.