It was hotter and more humid in Winnipeg this past weekend than it was in California. But, of course it was, it was Folk Fest weekend. In all my years of going — I’m no die hard but this also wasn’t my first rodeo — I can’t remember it ever being comfortable, or there not being some form of inclement weather to deal with.
This weekend was no different. It was hot. Like, really fucking hot. But it was also really great. Folk Fest is one of those unifying events that brings all sorts of people in, and provides an opportunity to not only see great performers, but also pals who migrate back to the city for the summer, or that friend of a friend you see around, or that person you were in a super professional work meeting with one time, only now they’re wearing a sarong. They’re all here, they’re all sweating (or freezing, or wet) and they’re all having a good time. We’re all in it together.
The line up this year was exciting — no Xavier Rudd or Cat Empire (no offense, it just feels like they’ve played the fest a million times) — and the acts I saw didn’t disappoint. Everyone was charming and laid back and sounded great. Kurt Vile, Luluc, Dan Mangan, Bahamas, Jose Gonzalez (yes, I cried when he played Heartbeats), and those who were part of the workshops (my favourite part of the fest) such as While My Guitar Gently Weeps, I Get a Kick Out Of You, California Dreamin’ and Playin’ For Change all genuinely seemed to be having a great time, which was such a pleasure to watch.
Here’s a snippet from Saturday afternoon. Luluc provided the perfect soundtrack to lay back and appreciate the breeze.
Sara is in a committed relationship with Winnipeg. They fight, and sometimes need to take a break, but they always come back to each other. You can follow her on twitter.