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Location, location, location with the Wapiti Music Festival
In one of the more perfect locations conceivable for a small, groovy gathering of musicians and music lovers, the first Wapiti Music Festival played out last weekend, August 19 and 20.
The setting was Fernie’s Annex Park, adjacent to its duck pond, with the serration of the Rockies looming beyond the Elk River-side tree line.
Early indications from some of the volunteers helping stage the event, blessed by sensational August-in-the-Rockies weather, with nary a cloud in the sky, about 800 people attended Friday evening’s festivities and a steady throng of people meandered in and around the festival grounds on Saturday.
Acts performing Friday night included Big Bubba Tre, Mobina Galore, Shred Kelly, Erin Frances and Michael Bernard Fitzgerald.
And Saturday’s chubby line-up included Jesse Dee and Jacquie B, Ben Sures, Sun Wizard, Deon Blyan, The Matinee (pictured performing), Erin Frances, Library Voices, Devon, Said the Whale, DJ Enjoy, Elliott BROOD and Yukon Blonde.
The idyllic setting, aided on immeasurably by the glorious weather and pleasant vibe at the festival, along with excellent musicianship made for an excellent outdoor music festival experience.
The festival was organized by The Fernie Music Festival Society, a non-profit society created solely for the purpose of putting on a music fest. Kudos to them and all the volunteers for helping create something that could become a another signature event in the region.
Ian Cobb/e-KNOW