Today marks the start of the 48th annual Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival, and organizers say there’s a different vibe this year.
The orange separation fencing is no more as the festival grounds at Bannerman Park are now fully amenable to the consumption of alcohol.
Then there’s the buzz around Saturday night headliners Emmy Lou Harris and Steve Earle, not to mention local standouts Duane Andrews and the Ennis Sisters among many others.
The executive director of the Folk Arts Society, Diana Daly, says all the prep work throughout the year is paying off, and the park itself looks “beautiful.”
For artists, she says it’s a great time to meet each other backstage and chill.
She says it’s where they make connections, such as when The Once ended up going on tour with Passenger after crossing paths at the festival.
Daly adds Emmy Lou Harris and Steve Earle both value their musical traditions and roots, which will be on full display Saturday.
She says people do not have to be hard core folkies to enjoy the festival, as there are many activities and offerings for everyone.
Bannerman Park in downtown St. John’s will be alive with music from tonight through Sunday night.
And by all accounts, the weather will co-operate with partly cloudy skies and highs in the mid-20s all weekend, with just a chance of showers early Saturday morning.
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