The time to dance, laugh, meet old friends, have fun with the children and family, listen to great music and be entertained in general has returned once again to the Kispiox.
Yes I am referring to the amazing Kispiox Valley Music Festival which is by far one of the highlights of the summer for me every year. This will be my fifteenth year attending this phenomenal event and I must admit, I am quite excited.
However, I must admit that the festival has changed for me over the years as when I first attended it was a place to meet new people, have fun with friends and listen to some new and enticing music. I have purchased many great CDs and met some incredibly talented musicians over the years and I am once again looking forward to this years’ diverse venues.
However, as the years progressed the festival also became a place to run into old friends that for various reasons, I only see once a year at this event. Then of course, came the addition of my wonderful children and the weekend became a place to introduce my family to my friends and a great way to bring music and dance into the boys lives.
It continues to diversify it seems as this year my mother has become an avid volunteer and my boys are looking forward to dancing, doing arts and crafts and seeing some of their friends along with all the usual excitement the weekend holds for myself.
Now if for some reason, you have never been to this amazing festival, this is the year to start your own traditions.
There is once again some very talented musicians, bands, and performers coming and there is something for everyone and all ages. There are always great things happening in the kids area and I often see older children, teenagers included, in the area getting crafty and having fun throughout the weekend. There is also performers in the kids area which make it extra fun for the little ones.
Then there is always something happening on the main stage at the river as well as in the newly renovated hall so if you feel like dancing or relaxing on the hill or sitting in the cover of the hall, there are lots of options. Everything is easily accessible for those with strollers or wheelchairs.
Then there is the neat variety of vendors every year where people can purchase unique clothing, get a massage, buy jewelry, pottery and much, much more.
Food is never a concern either as there seems to be something for every kind of taste available.
So if you have never been, the time is now and if you are a long time or few time returning festival goer, we look forward to seeing you there! However, I must warn you, if you enjoy great music, incredible scenery, amazing people and festivals, you about to get addicted.
Shannon Hurst writes the My Town column and is the regular correspondent for the Three Rivers Report.