It’s been three years and I still have fond memories of the festival, which this year, I’m happy to report, will be a two-day event. With the sheer number of festivals this city hosts the minute the mercury hits 30 C and we shed our clothes and our inhibitions, one would wonder if there's even a need or desire for one more. That question was clearly answered that by the hundreds of folk music lovers who, like myself, came early in the day to the beautiful venue by the Lachine Canal and stayed until the sun had set and the stars had come out. It appears that, despite popular misconceptions, we love our folk music in this town. It’s truly fantastic that, thanks to the support and a venue provided by local Westmount resident. Peter McAuslan, we now have such an event.
Despite the abundance of beer, (it does take place right outside of a brewery after all) there’s no denying the fest is a family affair. Organizers have made sure to include activities for the youngsters and many of the munchkins can usually be seen playfully making their way around the site as their parents take in the music.
This year’s line-up has exceeded my expectations, showcasing some of the top names in Canadian folk, including Kathleen Edwards, Craig Cardiff, Jenny Whiteley, Old Man Luedecke, and my personal favourite, the uber-talented Peter Katz. Local talent will be heavily represented with some of the best in Montreal folk, roots and bluegrass music, namely Rob Lutes, Notre Dame de Grass, Lake of Stew, and Katie Moore. Lutes’ soulful vocals and songwriting are worth the drive or bike ride to the brewery alone!
The Folk Fest on the Canal takes place Saturday, June 19 and Sunday, June 20 at the St-Ambroise Terrace (5080 St-Ambroise Street.) Live music from noon to 9 p.m. -
Whoever says that Montreal doesn't have a viable acoustic folk live scene is simply not paying attention. The line-up at this year’s Folk Fest on the Canal could blow the roof off any venue. It's just as a well it’s an open-air event.
The Folk Fest on the Canal takes place Saturday, June 19 and Sunday, June 20 at the St-Ambroise Terrace (5080 St-Ambroise Street.) Live music from noon to 9 p.m. Individual Day Passes are $25 with Weekend Passes set at $40 (children aged 12 and under are admitted free. For more information: www.montrealfolkfest.com
