Plenty to do this Ontario Family Weekend

You don't need a fishing license Family Day Weekend

There's a ton of stuff happening in Sunset Country this weekend including tons of free events.

Free Ontario Family Fishing Weekend
 
Ontario Family Fishing Weekend is a province-wide opportunity for Canadian residents to fish Ontario waters without the otherwise mandatory fishing version outdoors card. The Ontario Government designates two periods throughout the year as license-free, one of these being this Family Day weekend. You can fish license free from February 16-18, 2013 (12:01 a.m. Saturday to 11:59 p.m. Monday). In the summer you can also fish license free from July 6-14, 2013 (12:01 a.m. Saturday to 11:59 p.m. Sunday). During all other time periods, Canadian residents between the ages of 18 and 64 years must purchase a valid fishing license to legally fish in Ontario. If you've never been ice fishing, this weekend would be an opportune time to get out there and fish. You can also take a friend fishing.

Participants fishing without a license must fish under the Conservation fishing license limits which are set out in the current Ontario Recreational Fishing Regulations Summary. With the exception of the licensing requirement, Ontario fishing regulations, fees and limits continue to apply during license-free days.

Snowmobile our winter wonderland

Permit Free Snowmobiling

The OFSC is also having a 'Try Our Trails Permit'. The Try Our Trails Permit is only valid for available OFSC trails on Ontario’s Family Day Long Weekend February 16-18, 2013.

• You will be required to enter your sled license plate number, VIN, make, model and year when applying for this permit.*
• Print the permit yourself from confirmation email you receive after registering online.
• Permit must be affixed to your sled.

The OFSC wants to invite new participants, former riders and out‐of province visitors to try OFSC trails at no cost. They encourage all regular permit buyers to invite their families and friends to obtain a 2013 Try Our Trails Permit, so they can Take a Friend Snowmobiling. What a great opportunity to try the OFSC snowmobile trails. Find out more at the Ontario Federation of Snowmobiling Club website. 

2012 'Pimp Your Ice Shack' Winners

Winter Festivals

Check out the Dryden Winter Festival February 15-18, 2013. Celebrate winter outdoors with family and friends. There's a pancake breakfast, horse drawn sleigh rides, skating, sliding, snow kiting lessons and demos, snow sculpting, family fishing derby and so much more... You can download a printable schedule of Dryden Winter Festival events.

The Vermilion Bay Kin Karnival will kick off on February 14 with the Kin Baby contest at 6:30 p.m. The event continues on Friday with the annual fish fry at the Lions hall. There will be events all day Saturday including a pancake breakfast and a mini kids carnival, and a new event - the trapline challenge dog sled race. It's a mass start at 10:30 at the government dock. After that there will be having a kids mutt run. Sunday events include the Kin Family Fish Derby, which is often called the main event. Those interested in signing up for the fishing derby will be able to at the carnival. For more information on event registration contact Scott McEwan at 227-2904.

Mount Evergreen Ski Hill is open Family Day

There are also many Family Day Activities throughout the cities and towns in Sunset Country.

In Kenora, visit the Kenora Recreation Centre for a free public skate from 12:30-2pm and a free public swim from 1-2:30pm. Mount Evergreen Ski Hill will be open from 10-4pm and they have special pricing for the day. Beaver Creek Ranch is also open from 2-4pm. They will have sleigh rides, petting zoo, crafts and a bonfire.

In Thunder Bay there are lots of great things happening this Family Day weekend! There's Fort William Historical Park's Voyageur Winter Carnival all weekend and Winterfest down at Prince Arthur's Landing on February 18th. 

An “Indoor Planetarium” is coming to the Fort Frances Public Library Technology Centre on Monday, Feb. 18 (Family Day). Pick up your tickets for one of the six shows, which cost $2/person.

That's just a taste of what's happening in Sunset Country this weekend. Now get off the computer and head outside!

Mud, Music, Dragon Boats, Blueberries and Bass!

The August 10-12th weekend was filled with events in Sunset Country. From the Atikokan 4X4 Mudfling to the Shaw KBI to the Blueberry Festival in Sioux Lookout to the Trout Forest Music Festival in Ear Falls, Sunset Country had it all. Here's a quick recap of the weekend with links to see some of the photos of these summertime events.

Blueberry Bert joining the entertainment

The Blueberry Festival

The Festival is a 10 day festival that ran August 3-12, 2012 in Sioux Lookout, Ontario. This year was special as it was the 30th anniversary of the Blueberry Festival and Sioux Lookout's Centennial. The theme for this year’s Blueberry Festival was 'Hometown Heroes.' This theme was chosen to honour and celebrate the people who have worked so hard to make our community what it is today. There were over 130 events each year at the Blueberry Festival. Visit the Blueberry Festival Facebook page for tons of great photos of all the events. CKDR also has some Blueberry Festival photos.

News Articles of the Blueberry Festival: 
- Blueberry Festival Begins today, Aug. 3

Full Trottle

The 2012 Atikokan Mudfling

The Atikokan Mudslingers 4x4 Club Mudfling was held August 11-12th and had a double feature presentation. Spectators got to see "Full Throttle" and "Paper Boy Express" in action at the Opening Ceremonies and at Intermission on Saturday, and again on Sunday morning. "Full Throttle" and "Paper Boy Express" was set up in an area for you to talk with the people that built and drive these awesome machines and see their cars up close. The 4x4 Mudfling was held at the Charleson Recreation Area in Atikokan. Bookmark the Mudslingers' website for next year's events and to see photos of the event.

The Trout Forest Music Festival

The Ear Falls Waterfront Park came alive for the 17th Annual Trout Forest Music Festival August 10-12, 2012. The weather held out and concert goers were treated to over 25 musical acts including Jon Brooks, Alex Cuba and April Verch. Check out some photos of the Trout Forest Music Festival at Tourism Red Lake's Facebook page or on both Q104s or CKDR's Facebook page.

News articles about the Trout Forest Music Festival:

- Trout Forest Music Festival 2012 Gallery, Aug. 12
- Final Day for Trout Forest Music Festival, Aug. 12
- Trout Forest Music Festival has some of Manitoba's best playing waterside, Aug. 9

Rob Horley holds a 5.58lb largemouth bass caught at the 2012 SKBI - Photo courtesy of the Kenora Daily Miner and News

The Shaw Kenora Bass International

The SKBI was held August 9-11th, 2012 on Lake of the Woods in Kenora. Aaron Wiebe and Peter Tully were the 2012 tournament winners, taking home a $22,375 first prize. 2012 was the 25th year for the SKBI, which for years was named KBI until Shaw became a major sponsor. Past tournaments are showcased on the newly designed SKBI website. The bass tournament on Lake of the Woods is now known as Shaw KBI or SKBI. The biggest bag of fish came on day two with Jim Gustafson and Ben Gustafson reeling in 20.40 lbs. Jon Olson and Clay Lajeunesse got the biggest fish on both Day 1 and Day 2 with a 6.09 and a 5.99 lb bass. Day Three's biggest was caught by Michael Dufresne and Louis Syemour with a 5.38 pounder. All results of the 2012 Shaw KBI can be found online here. View some more photos of the SKBI at the 89.5 The Lake Facebook page.

News articles about the SKBI:

- Wiebe/Tully take 25th Shaw KBI with 18.85-pound final day, Aug 11
- Wiebe and Tully Win SKBI, Aug. 11
- Jim and Ben Gustafson shoot to top of the SKBI leaderboard with 20-plus-pound day two haul, Aug 10 
- McNanney, Rydberg lead SKBI, Aug.9

Dragon Boat racers on Rabbit Lake

The Kenora Dragon Boat Festival

Over 340 paddlers took part in the 10th Annual KLWRCF Dragon Boat Festival held August 12th on Rabbit Lake in Kenora. The one day festival went off without a hitch, finishes a couple of hours before the rain began. 17 boats raced this year's 500-metre water course. The races were held in heats of 2 or three boats starting off on the east end of the lake and ending just in front of the cheering crowd at the Kenora Rowing Club. After a few races, they broke for the flower ceremony where the Dragon Tamers, Chemo Savvy and other female paddlers took to the water. The Dragon Tamers were selling carnations to be thrown in the water after a touching song and the single beat of a drum. The foundation raised $22,000 from this past weekend's dragon boat races. Super Troopers won the A-side title, and Carpe Diem, members of Kenora's legal community placed first in the b-side event. Check out some of the photos on the Sunset Country Facebook page or the 89.5 The Lake Facebook page.

News articles about the Dragon Boat Festival:
- Dragon Boats Profitable for Community Foundation, Aug. 13
- Super Troopers repeat as champs, Aug. 13
- Tenth annual Dragon Boat Festival, Aug. 12

All in all, in was a very busy weekend in Sunset Country. For a list of events in Northwest Ontario, visit the new Ontario's Sunset Country Events Calendar.

Winter Festivals in Sunset Country

Why hibernate in the winter? There are many winter festivals and carnivals in Northwest Ontario. It's much more fun to take part in an ice fishing derby, carving or viewing a snow sculpture, or watch canoe races than sitting on your couch! Here are a few of the Winter Carnivals in Sunset Country:

Many communities have snow sculpture competitions

Vermilion Bay Kin Karnival - February 16-19, 2012

The Vermilion Bay Kin Karnival is spread over 4 days in February. The Kin Karnival Events are suited to everyone - both young and old. Take part in the events such as the Fish Fry, Pancake Breakfast, Snow Derby, Kids Karnival and the Kin Karnival Dance for adults. See the crowning of the Carnival Queen and don't forget the main event, the Kin Family Fish Derby.

Thursday February 16 - There is the Kin Baby Contest and Cake Walk at the  Lions Hall from 6:30-9:30pm. Hot dogs and Canteen available. Pre-register at the toy library 807-227-KIDS.

Friday February 17 - Fill up at the yummy Fish Fry at Lions Hall from 5-7:00pm. Then at 7:00pm there is a Coffee House Fundraiser for Syd Wall.

Saturday February 18 - Start the day at Lions Hall where there is a Kin Pancake Breakfast from 8-11:00am. The Lion's Family Snow Derby takes place from 9:00am to 1:00pm. No trail permit required. The Eagle Lake SC Spaghetti Supper is at the Lions Hall from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. The Kin Karnival Queen will be crowned after the Spaghetti Supper. Mini Kids Karnival - 11:00am to 4:00pm at the School. In the evening, take part in the Kin Karnival Dance at the Bayview Motel starting at 9:00 pm. Age of Majority only.

Sunday February 19 - Have breakfast at the Kin Pancake Breakfast at the Lions Hall from 9:00am-11:30am. The Queen Contest Raffle Draw will be at 11:00am. The Kin Family Fish Derby takes place from the Eagle Lake Government Dock, 1:00pm to 4:00pm. Awards are at the Lions Hall from 4:00pm to 6:00pm. For more information on the Vermilion Bay Kin Karnival, visit www.experiencedryden.ca or contact Scott at 807-227-2904. For more information on Vermilion Bay visit www.visitmachin.com



Dryden Winter Festival - February 18-20, 2012

Take part in the Dryden Annual Winter Festival starting on Saturday February 18th. On Saturday, there will be a Grand Opening Ceremony at the Dryden Memorial Arena and then a fun hockey event for kids to watch, the Dryden Ice Dogs vs. Cops.

Sunday, February 19th is packed with activities. Start the day with breakfast at Moose Hall Breakfast from 9:00am-Noon. Take part in the 32nd Annual Snowarama for Easter Seals kids. Enjoy free activities such as the Family Fun Skate at the Dryden Memorial Arena, the Family Fun Swim at the Pool and Fitness Centre and the Skating Oval & Sliding Hill at Van Horne Landing. Warm up at the Bonfire & Warm Up Hut in the afternoon. There are also free Snowkiting Lessons & Demos.

Monday, Family Day, starts with a Pancake Breakfast at the Royal Canadian Legion. 3 on 3 Hockey Tourney at the Dryden Memorial Arena. There are many free activities again on Monday. Try Water Fit, Family Fun Swim, or Progressive Tennis at the Pool and Fitness Centre. Try your luck at the Family Fishing Derby on Wabigoon Lake. A fishing license is not needed as this is the Free Ontario Family Fishing Weekend. Holes are pre-drilled, just bring your rods & bait. We look forward to a fun family fishing day with you! Pimp Your Ice Shack - A panel of judges will make their rounds to ice shacks on Wabigoon Lake on February 20th. Pimp your shack along the ice road for easy judging OR provide transportation to your shack for the judge’s view. There will also be free Sleigh Rides & Dog Sled Rides, Snowkiting Lessons & Demos and skating and sliding at the Skating Oval & Sliding Hill at Van Horne Landing.

For more information on events and exact times, visit Experience Dryden. You may also call 807-223-1426 or email akidd@dryden.ca or winterfest@dryden.ca

Sioux Lookout Pond Hockey Tournament

Sioux Mountain Winter Festival - February 24-26

Sioux Lookout hosts an annual Sioux Mountain Winter Festival. The Legion Ladies Auxiliary host a beef on a bun event on Friday night. The Warrior boys hockey have their annual pancake breakfast on Sunday morning. The star of the show is the fifth annual Pelican Lake Pond Hockey Tournament taking place Saturday and Sunday at the Forest Inn Lakefront. For more information on the Pelican Lake Pond Hockey Tournament, contact Christine Hoey at 737-7955 or Email: christine@siouxtravel.ca The festival will run from February 24 until the 26 and takes place in various locations in Sioux Lookout as well as on Pelican Lake.

Kenora Winter Carnival - March 2-4, 2012

The Kenora Winter Carnival opens on Friday with free hot chocolate at 6:30pm under the tent. At 6:45pm the winner of the 2012 Snow Sculpture will be announced and then fireworks start at 7:00pm. Also at 7:00pm is a Euchre Tournament at the Keewatin Seniors Centre. The Rockin' Roots & Blues begins at 8:00pm at Shooters featuring live music by The Crooked Brothers, Bourbon Creek, Romi Mayes, and Jr Boy Jones with Ms. Kerrie Lapai.

Saturday is jammed pack with events at the Harbourfront and around town. At the Kenora Harbourfront you can find vendors and food concessions from 10:00am-5:00pm. The Kids Carnival and Funtastic Castle will be there from 10:00am-4:00pm. Beaver Creek Ranch will be there from 11:00am-3:00pm offering wagon rides. Have a talented dog? Bring him or her to the Dog Agility Contest at noon. At 1:00pm Boardanyone is putting on a snowboard competition. At 2:00pm there will be a Servers Scuttle, where teams of 2 people race through an obstacle course, holding a tray of glasses filled with water. The Sunset Trail Riders are also holding a Poker Derby.

Mount Evergreen Ski Hill is hosting a Dummy Downhill Race at 2:30pm. There is a free Public Swim from 3:15-5:15 at the Kenora Recreation Centre. Saturday night is hopping with the 4th Annual Hosers and Mukluks Winter Ball at the Lakeshore Hotel in Keewatin and the Rockin' Roots & Blues continues at Shooters featuring: Hillbilly Burlesque, the F Holes, Shadow Junction, and Lil Ed and the Blues Imperials.

Sunday of the Kenora Winter Carnival begins with a pancake breakfast at the Harbourfront from 10:00am-12:00pm. Also at the Harbourfront with be the Kids Carnival and Funtastic Castle and Snowmobile Rides from 10:00am-2:00pm. The Log Sawing Competition begins at noon and the Great Canadian Canoe Race begins at 12:30pm. Mount Evergreen Ski Hill is also hosting Dawn of the Shred at 11:00am. Beaver Creek Ranch is hosting a Girls Night from 6:00pm-8:00pm. You must pre-register for some of the events, please visit the Kenora Winter Carnival website for more information and to download registration sheets. If you are coming into Kenora for the weekend, the Super 8 is offering a Roots and Blues Package.

Cribbage Tournament at the Nestor Falls Winter Carnival

 

Nestor Falls Winter Carnival - March 2-4, 2012

Friday, March 2nd, 2012:

The Nestor Falls Winter Carnival begins with the judging of the Ice & Snow sculptures at 4:00pm. At 7:00pm come to "Without a Trace's" live performance at the Nestor Falls Community Hall. They'll play Country and Rock hits from the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s & Today! Only 100 seats available. Age of Majority strictly enforced. Free entry in the All Participants Draw with ticket purchase! Only $10.

Saturday, March 3rd, 2012:

Registration for all events is at the Nestor Falls Community Hall. Get your ice fishing rods ready, the Winter Carnival Fishing Derby takes place from 7:00am – 5:00pm. The Poker Derby runs from 9:00am – 4:00pm as does the Scavenger Hunt. The Cribbage Tournament as well as Kid's Games start at 11:30am. Winter Photos will be judged and the winner announced. Submit your best winter themed photo by e-mailing it to Kiley Hanson at kileyhanson@gmail.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Photos must be high resolution and in image file format. At 5:00pm Awards and attendance prizes will be awarded. Cash bar and canteen will be available starting at 11:00 am. Entry fee for all events automatically enters to win an All Participants’ Draw. Saturday night features a Live Band - "Highway 71" at the 30th Annual Winter Carnival Dance from 9:00pm – 1:00am. $5 cover. Age of Majority strictly enforced.

Sunday, March 4th, 2012:

Fill up at the Pancake Breakfast from 8:00am-11:00am. It's all you can eat pancakes & sausage! $4.00/adult, $2/children 12 & under and Seniors eat free!

For more information on any events or activities at the Nestor Falls Winter Carnival, contact Kiley Hanson – kileyhanson@gmail.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 276-4405 or visit the Township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls website – www.livethelakelife.ca


Please visit the Sunset Country Events page for more information on other winter carnivals or events. If you have a winter carnival you'd like added to this post please email me.

4 Shows the Whole Family Will Love

Flyin' Bob opens the Children's Entertainment Series circuit in Northwest Ontario. Atikokan's Children's Entertainment Series, Dryden's Children's Delight Series, Fort Frances' Kids and Company, Kenora's Sunday Smiles, Red Lake's Family Entertainment Series,  and Sioux Lookout Kids Kaleidoscope have been offering four, high quality performances that focus mostly on dance, music theatre and puppetry for children and their families Sunset Country.

The 2011/12 performances are as follows:

Flyin' Bob

From the rainbow skywriter, to a dramatic and nearly disastrous finale on the 9 foot high, 20 foot long tight-wire, Flyin' Bob; balancer, wire walker, professional idiot and highly skilled goofball, takes you on a visit to the one man three ring circus in his mind. He views the world as filled with toys, and tries to convince his audience to see it the same way. The most common reaction after seeing the show is, "This guy has too much time on his hands!". Flyin' Bob considers this the highest possible compliment.

• October 20, 2011 at 6:30 pm at the Sacred Heart School in Sioux Lookout
• October 21, 2011 at 6:30 pm at New Prospect School in Dryden
• October 22, 2011 at 6:30 pm at the Red Lake District High School in Red Lake 
• October 23, 2011 at 2:00 pm at Lakewood School in Kenora
• October 24, 2011 at 6:30 pm at the Townshend Theatre in Fort Frances
• October 26, 2011 at 6:30 pm at the Atikokan High School in Atikokan

The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus 

Based on the book by L Frank Baum, author of The Wizard of Oz, this exciting story follows the early life of Santa Claus from being abandoned in the forest and adopted by the wood-nymphs, through to making and delivering the very first toys. Meet the original reindeer Glossie and Flossie as well as the chilly rogue Jack Frost and find out the answer to lots of Christmas questions! Why do we hang stockings? Where the first Christmas tree was decorated? And finally how he came to be known as Saint Nicholas and Santa Claus. Packed with funny jokes, inventive puppets, enchanting songs and tons of opportunities for the audience to join in, The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus is both a beautifully crafted story and an engaging piece of theatre.

• November 17, 2011 at 6:30 pm at the Sacred Heart School in Sioux Lookout
• November 18, 2011 at 6:30 pm at The Centre in Dryden
• November 19, 2011 at 6:30 pm at the Red Lake District High School in Red Lake
• November 20, 2011 at 2:00 pm at Lakewood School in Kenora 
• November 21, 2011 at 6:30 pm at the Townshend Theatre in Fort Frances
• November 23, 2011 at 6:30 pm at the Atikokan High School in Atikokan 

Anders Magic 

Winnipeg magician Anders has been performing and astounding audiences professionally for over 10 years. Anders' show is an interactive combination of magic, juggling, comedy and pick-pocketing. The kids will be glad to know he uses plenty of audience participation but watch out for Anders' 2 animal co-stars Rocky and Vinnie. A true entertainer, Anders strives to make your experience memorable and magical. This 60 minute show is sure to impress and delight all ages.

• February 23, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the Sacred Heart School in Sioux Lookout
• February 24, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the New Prospect School in Dryden
• February 25, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the Red Lake District High School in Red Lake
• February 26, 2012 at 2:00 pm at Lakewood School in Kenora 
• February 27, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the Townshend Theatre in Fort Frances
• February 29, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the Atikokan High School in Atikokan

Project Soul

Project Soul was created to share the love and passion of hip hop. It shows the positive impact it can have on communities and how it connects/identifies with so many of today's youth. The group is made up of individuals who each specialize in different genres of street dance: popping, locking, hip hop, street jazz and breakdance. The show highlights these individual lives and how they came together as Project Soul.

Project Soul begins with the opening of their current touring show: how music gave them the gift of dance. This leads into each individual performer's solo that include biographical voiceovers expressing how they got involved with street dance culture and what impact it has on their lives. In conclusion they end with how hip hop has brought them together as a group, a community and given them much more understanding of their own identity.

• April 19, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the Sacred Heart School in Sioux Lookout
• April 20, 2012 at 6:30 pm at New Prospect School in Dryden
• April 21, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the Red Lake District High School in Red Lake
• April 22, 2012 at 2:00 pm at Lakewood School in Kenora 
• April 23, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the Townshend Theatre in Fort Frances
• April 25, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the Atikokan High School in Atikokan

For more information and ticket prices, please visit:

Atikokan: Atikokan Children's Entertainment Series or call Kathy at 807-597-4306
Dryden: Children's Delight Series
Fort Frances: Kids and Company
Kenora: Sunday Smiles or Sunday Smiles on Facebook
Red Lake: Family Entertainment Series
Sioux Lookout: Kids Kaleidoscope

Blue Rodeo to Christen 'HarbourDome'

Blue Rodeo will be first concert at Kenora's HarbourDome.

Blue Rodeo is playing for the opening of Kenora's new Harbourfront tent. The yellow and black tent that has been a staple on the Harbourfront for many years is no more. Last Monday a strong gust of wind lifted the tent and down it came. As I walked by a day or two later it was a sad sight to see the tent laying in a crumpled heap. The end of an era I guess.

Luckily for Kenora residents and visitors, contractors have been hard at work last year and this summer building  the new 'HarbourDome'. The new permanent, year round tent will be bigger and better. The tent is one part of the massive renovation down at the Kenora Harbourfront. I for one can't wait to see it completed. This is the second phase of the downtown revitalization. The first phase was done a few years ago with Main Street being gutted and the roundabout being built.

Blue Rodeo is set to christen the tent performing live on September 16th. Tourism Kenora is selling tickets online and you can either get them mailed to you or you can pick them up at the new Discovery Centre on Lakeview Drive. Tickets are either $50, $70 or $90 plus a $4 service fee and tax.

Kenora, often promoted as the 'Events' city has just announced that the Stampeders are booked to play two weeks later on October 2nd. The Juno Award-winning classic rock group is best known for it's 'Sweet City Woman' hit. Tickets are $45 and can be bought at www.mygolive.com It looks like the new tent with a capacity of 2000 people will be bringing bigger names in the future. Personally, I am hoping for the Tragically Hip one day. The Stampeders are also set to play in Fort Frances and Dryden. On September 30th you'll find them belting out tunes at the Townsend Theatre in Fort Frances and then at the Dryden Cultural Centre on October 1st.

For other events in Sunset Country visit our Events Calendar on our Facebook page.

Catch The Trout! Trout Forest Music Festival

Montreal's Juno award-winning folk group Chic Gamine

Music in the Woods! August 12-14, 2011

Meet up at the Ear Falls Waterfront Park for the 16th Annual Trout Forest Music Festival. The festival has become a favourite annual summer festival getaway for music fans. The bands are roots-based solo artists and groups. One of the festival's mandates is to try and have the most diverse collection of musicians, both geographical and genre speaking. The small size of the music festival appeals to many. It creates an interactive atmosphere between the audience and the musicians. Unlike other folk festivals across the country, attendees don't have to worry about dealing with large line-ups and overbearing crowds. While it is a smaller event, the talent is not small. Performers include Victoria, BC's alternative country singer-songwriter Carolyn Mark and Montreal's Juno award-winning folk group Chic Gamine.

This year's line-up consists of 30 must-see musicians from across Canada. In addition to Carolyn Mark and Chic Gamine the other musical acts are Don Amero, Vince Andrushko, Big Boogaloo, Allison Brown, Crooked Brother, Cris Derksen, Deep Dark Woods, Matt Epp, Jean-Paul De Roover, Lindsay Jane, Little Miss Higgins,  Marc Merilainen, Andrew Neville and The Poor Choices, NQ Arbuckle, Andrew Queen, Mark Reeves, Jess Reimer, Righteous Ike, Ben Sures, Sweet Alibi, Tannis Slimmon, The F-Holes, and Bob Wiseman. See more about the musicians and a confirmed list of the bands on Trout Forest Music Festival website.

Kenora's Big Boogaloo

The music festival is held in Ear Falls, Ontario which is located on Highway 105  approximately 110 km north of the Trans Canada Highway at Vermilion Bay.  Ear Falls is approximately 2 hours from Kenora, 1 1/2 hours from Dryden, 4 1/2 hours from Thunder Bay, and 4/1/2 hours from Winnipeg. Once in Ear Falls, on the right just past the Hydro Dam, you will see the Ear Falls Waterfront Park, the home of the Trout Forest Music Festival. Parking is on the west side of Highway 105, opposite the festival site.

If you are coming from out of town, you can camp in the area. There are Quiet Camping Only Sites available at the Baseball Fields. Tent Camping Spaces are limited and available on a First Come, First Served basis. RV Sites are limited and available on a First Come First Serve basis. RV Overflow Sites have no facilities or security crew. Camping opens at 12:00 noon on Thursday, August 11th. Each member in your group/family must possess a valid camping pass. Shower and restroom facilities onsite. Free firewood. Children under 12 are free.

There are off-site accommodations that offer camping or if you are lucky they may have a cabin or hotel room left open. Here are some of the the facilities offering off-site camping accommodations during the Trout Forest Music Festival: Lac Seul Evergreen Lodge, Pine Ridge Campground, Little Canada Camp, Lac Seul's, Golden Eagle, Rainbow Point Lodge,  Goose Bay Camp, Trillium Motel & Restaurant (807-222-3126), and Hotel 105 (807-222-3374).To find out about any other accommodations or about Ear Falls, please visit www.ontariotowns.net/EarFalls/

Tickets are available at Stems ‘n Such in the Ear Falls Plaza, at The Northern Sun News in Red Lake, the Q104 FM Office in Vermilion Bay, the Golden Nectar or CKDR 92.7 FM in Dryden, HoJoe’s Coffee & Books or Fragile Glass Studio with Charm in Kenora, and at the Winnipeg Folk Festival Store or Times Change(d) High & Lonesome Club in Winnipeg, MB. You can also buy tickets online at Ticketbreak.com. A full list of ticket prices, which range from $22 day passes to $70 3-day weekend passes, are available on the festival's website www.troutfest.com. If you require further assistance, contact the office at: 807-222-2404 or toll-free @ 1-866-TROUT33.

For information on other musical events or festivals in Northwest Ontario, visit the Sunset Country Events Page or the Events Calendar on Facebook.

Come Celebrate Kenora’s Biggest Summer Party

Kenny Shields & Streetheart play Friday night

July 29th to 31st are dates to mark on your calendars if you love to hear great bands and party the night away. Kenora's annual Harbourfest takes place over three fun-filled days and you do not want to miss it. Located under the big tent on the Kenora harbourfront, where else can you enjoy great music and a great view of beautiful Lake of the Woods at the same time?

This year's line-up of bands are as follows:
Friday Night: Kenny Shields & Streetheart, Aldo Nova, Honeymoon Suite, A Flock  of Seagulls
Saturday Night: Doc Walker with Special Guest Big Boogaloo
Sunday Night: Sloan with Special Guests The Watchmen, Ian Thornley & Big Wreck

Harbourfest isn't just for the adults though, Harbourfest has something for everyone. During the day there are also a number of other events suitable for the entire family. Both Saturday and Sunday there is the Kidzone from 11am-5pm which includes carnival games, face painting, bouncy rides, and pony rides. Wristbands for rides and games are $8 per child per day. The wristband also gets you into the Brian Glow Illusion show Sunday July 31 at 1:30pm under the big tent on the Harbourfront.

Kidzone includes all sorts of children's activities such as the bouncy castle

Other Events on Saturday include:

Under the tent:

• 11am-3:30pm - DCPro artist search, Kenora’s version of Canadian Idol. Judges decide the winners with input from audience ballots.
• 11am-3:30pm - Photo contest slide show. Sponsored by the Hardwear Company and Chow Time Pet Supply.
• 12-2pm - Kenora’s hip hop dancers will perform between musical acts in the DCPro artist search.

 Outside of the tent:

• 10am-6pm - Aboriginal Art Show & Sale, ‘on the green’ next to Blue Heron Gift Shop. Free admission. Sponsored by Seven Generations Education Institute.
• 11am-5pm - Crafters kiosks beside the big tent.
• Noon - Kinect contest at Lake of the Woods Museum. The museum's interactive exhibit called "From Pong to Kinect - The History of Arcade Games” also includes vintage arcade games that you can actually play. For more information, contact the museum at 467-2105.

Brian Glow's Amazing Illusion Show

Sunday Events include:

Under the tent: 

• 11am-3:00pm - Photo contest slide show.
• 1:30pm - Brian Glow’s amazing illusion show. In honour of Harbourfest’s 20th anniversary, this show is bigger and better than any afternoon family show there's ever been at Harbourfest. Sponsored by LOWBIC. Free entry with Kidzone wristband.

 Outside of the tent:

• 7:30-9:30am — Pancake breakfast at Jubilee Church on First Street, just one block from the Harbourfront. $5 per person.
• 10am-6pm - Aboriginal Art Show & Sale, ‘on the green’ next to Blue Heron Gift Shop. Free admission. Sponsored by Seven Generations Education Institute. It is also there on Monday 10 - noon.
• 11am-5pm - Crafters kiosks beside the big tent.
• 11am-4pm - CarFest classic car show on the greenbelt between the Harbourfront and Huskie the Muskie.
• 12-2:30pm - On the water. Wooden boat parade and display. Sponsored by Two Bears Marina
• 10:30pm - Fireworks extravaganza
  

For more information and to find places to stay you can also contact Kenora Tourism or visit the Harbourfest website to purchase tickets. Tickets are going fast. You can also pick them up (cash only) at Donny B's. Nibblers nook and Two Bears Marina in Kenora.

A Whole Festival Related to Blueberries? You Betcha!

Over 110 Events at This Year's Blueberry Festival in Sioux Lookout

Blueberry Festival, Sioux Lookout, Ontario

The Blueberry Festival is a 10 day festival celebrating the community of Sioux Lookout. It runs from July 29-August 7, 2011. With over 110 events this year, the Blueberry Festival has become a grand summer celebration attracting thousands of visitors from around the region and around the world. Blueberries are abundant in Northwest Ontario so it only seems fitting to have a Blueberry Festival. Wild blueberries are one of my favourite fruit and my mouth is watering a little bit as I write this. Starting on the Friday of August long weekend and lasting for ten days, residents and visitors come together and form a bond of great communal spirit. Many of the events encompass the beauty of the area, allowing participants and spectators to enjoy the plentiful lakes and beaches. From the very young to the young at heart, and from the athletically inclined to the most sedate sport enthusiasts, there is something for everyone at the Blueberry Festival.

The festival starts with the Blueberry Festival Opening Ceremonies taking place at the Town Beach from 3:30-6pm. There will be face painting, free balloons, speeches, Kenora Scottish Pipes & Drums performance, entertainment by Edible Rex, presentation of the Jack McKenzie Memorial Award, and the ceremonial cutting of the ribbon and cake. This sets the scene for the next 10 days in Sioux Lookout. Many of the restaurants even get in on the action by offering blueberry themed baking, meals and even Blueberry Mojitos at Foxy's July 29th from 5:30-9pm. Visit the Forest Bar & Grill at the Forest Inn from July 29-August 7 and receive a piece of blueberry pie with the purchase of any entree after 4:30pm. Drop by the Mayfair Theatre for a blueberry snack. Blueberry cheesecake ice cream, blueberry milkshakes, and blueberry sundaes will be available all week. Visit Dick & Nellie's Restaurant for a taste of blueberry spirit. The menu features Homemade Blueberry BBQ Pork Ribs, Cool Summer Blueberry Soup with Creme Fraiche, Blueberry Panna Cotta Cream Dessert, and more! The Dick & Nellie's blueberry inspired menu is available from 4:30pm to closing until August 6.

Some of the other events include a Blueberry Window Painting Contest, a Bannock Bake-off, Blueberry Rock-Paper-Scissors Tournament, the Annual Roy Lane 10K Road Race, Family Fun Day, Wagon Rides, and much more. Get a bird's eye view of Sioux Lookout with a Slate Falls Town Tour. There are also golf, beach volleyball, bocce, tennis, road hockey, dodgeball, hockey, basketball tournaments.

Sioux Mountain Music and Cultural Festival is held on July 30-31. Saturday is a day of live music at the Town Beach featuring local artists and more! From noon to midnight, come and enjoy music, workshops, vendors, and food!

 Visit the Blueberry Festival website to see the complete Sioux Mountain Festival Line Up. There will also be a BBQ, Sioux Mountain Festival t-shirts, draws, raffles, give-a-ways and the Taste of Sioux Lookout (local chefs offering their signature dishes). On Sunday, come to the Town Beach from 12-6pm and experience all Cultural Day has to offer. Featuring workshops, music, booths, demonstrations, and other fun activities such as  snow shoe making,
tie dying, 
dance workshops, 
craft booths 
and so much more!

August 7th is the Annual Childrens Festival. Take your kids to the Town Beach from 10am-2pm for the 5th Annual Childrens Festival featuring a Dog Parade, Comic Book Workshop, Diamond Dogs Show, Cedar Bay Wagon Rides & much more.

With over 100 events, I can't list them all! See the Blueberry Festival for a complete listing of events. For more information on Sioux Lookout, please visit the Sioux Lookout Chamber of Commerce or www.ontariotowns.net/SiouxLookout/

UPDATE:  A list of all the winners at the various events at the 2011 Blueberry Festival can be found on the Blueberry Festival's website.