Barb Sinclair, WKA contributor
The 11th annual Pass Creek Bluegrass Festival is in the final planning stages as the full weekend of pickin’ and grinnin’ gets its own fine-tuning. A handful of dedicated musicians has just about completed all the details for three days of great entertainment, food, hospitality and abundant memories to take home for one and all. Ruth Kozub, one of the planners, says “We’re just amateurs and never know who’s coming.” That’s what happens when you put out billboards, arrows, advertise on various websites (ie Castlegar News Community Calendar, pg. 8, and www.passcreekfair.com - look at an awesome video from last year) and word of mouth. Ruth explains further, “A circuit started years ago, and the musicians who like to go from one festival to another always know that once the Summerland bluegrass festival is over, it’s off to Castlegar,” and the venue at the Pass Creek Exhibition Grounds. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see at least 60 RV’s in the campground for this popular yearly show. July 13-15 are the dates to mark on your calendar. Here is a rough sketch of the weekends’ fun schedule:
Friday July 13 - 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. afternoon of music, getting settled in.
6 p.m.-10 p.m. Opening Ceremonies - Mayor Chernoff; more music.
Saturday, 14 - 7 a.m. Pancake Breakfast; 10 a.m. Band Scramble; 1-5 p.m. Open Mic;
5-6:30 Supper; 6:30-10 p.m. Open Mic.
Sunday, 15 - 7 a.m. Pancake Breakfast; 10 a.m. Open Mic for Bluegrass Gospel.
There is also a concession booth. People are invited to stay as long as they wish as folks
like to keep playing after the Sunday morning fellowship time. Campsites onsite are $10 per RV or site per day, and $10 per adult. Gate fees: Friday, adults $5, youth $2; Saturday, adults $6, youth $3; Sunday is by donation. Full marks to all the organizers, including two original planners, Eva Mohn and Harvey Muller. On site will be lots more
info on this group that meets regularly at Blueberry Elementary. Contact Ruth Kozub at 250-365-5538 for more particulars on pickin’ and grinnin’ the rest of the year.