The 2nd Annual Desert Daze Music Festival is a three-day music festival that celebrates "community" in and around the little town of Spences Bridge. After last yearÕs success in bringing visitors and locals together, dedicated Community Club volunteers are planning to host a bigger and better festival August 19-21.
The beautiful surroundings of the Thompson River and mountainside act as a natural amphitheatre for an impressive musical outdoor venue.
An opening ceremony with First Nations drumming and an opening prayer will officially launch the festival on Friday afternoon. The main stage and activities take place on the Spences Bridge school grounds, visible from the Trans Canada Highway.
Romi Mayes and Jay Nowicki are confirmed as the headlining duo on Friday night and throughout all three days, over 20 acts will take to the stage.
The 2011 line-up includes local favourites and musical warriors from across North America: Janet Panic, Carolyn Mark, The Streels, Willy Blizzard, Wichita Trip, Rockland Moran, Leslie Alexander, and many more. Sean Ashby and Andrea Ramolo are both traveling from Toronto to perform at this year's festival.
Vendor displays, workshops, children's activities and games are all a part of the event. The committee is hoping to again have a pickling cucumber canning workshop and plans are underway for an apple bobbing and seed spitting competition.
The combination of music, crafts and activities identify the unique aspects of rural life, incorporating rich area themes in farming, railroading, fishing, heritage and First Nations culture.
Advanced tickets for a weekend pass only costs $60 with discounted prices for seniors and students at $15 a piece for Friday and Sunday's passes.
For more information on tickets, vendor applications, entertainment line-up, event schedule and special workshops, visit www.desertdaze.ca.
Maya Chang