ABRAM-VILLAGE, P.E.I. — The Evangeline Bluegrass and Traditional Music Festival opens on Friday, July 12, and runs through Sunday, July 14, at the Acadian Musical Village grounds in Abram-Village.
The festival opened its gates in 2001 to foster interest in traditional Bluegrass music, provide a boost to local tourism and bring the community closer together through music. It has since blossomed into a popular event, consistently drawing new and returning attendees.
“Our attendees become a part of our family, experiencing a friendly and joie-de-vivre atmosphere that the festival creates,” said president Raymond Bernard.
A pre-festival stage show goes July 11 from 7-9 p.m., beginning with an open mic session followed by two P.E.I. bands: Heartfelt Bluegrass and Two + Three.
On July 12, bands will play from 1:50 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. with the official opening taking place at 6:50 p.m.
Musicians take the stage again Saturday at 9:30 a.m. and will continue until 10:30 p.m.
On Sunday music begins at 10 a.m. until the festival closing at 4 p.m.
Attendees are also invited to take part in jam sessions scattered around the campground. Both amateur and professional singers and pickers make music together, creating a unique community atmosphere.
“If you like music and friendly people, the 19th annual Evangeline Bluegrass Festival is the place to be. Bluegrass festivals are excellent occasions to meet friends and make new friends,” said Bernard.
The 2019 lineup features many award-winning performers.
The headliner band at this year’s festival is a Boston-based group called Mile Twelve. This high youthful energy bluegrass band is the winner of three IBMA’s Momentum Awards and has been nominated for 2018 emerging artist of the year and instrumental performance of the year. Their sound is fresh and innovative yet rooted in a solid foundation of bluegrass. According to Paul Schminger, president for the IBMA, “It’s a group to watch in the coming decade”.
Other performers include: Bluegrass Diamonds; Eddy Poirier & Grassline; Ray Legere & Acoustic Horizon; Simply Blue; Oxbow Mountain Boys; Kids in Bluegrass Club; Janet McGarry & Wildwood and SK Bluegrass.
The festival also includes open mics, a workshop, a children’s program, a Sunday morning gospel music rendition, raffle ticket sales on a Sigma guitar and a basket of surprises, a 50/50 draw on each day of the festival, souvenirs and food available on site at the canteen and ice cream booths as well as at the Resto-Bar La Trappe.Breakfast will be served at the restaurant on both Saturday and Sunday, 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Serviced lots are still available for RVs and trailers and there’s ample space for rough camping. For camping information, call Leona Gallant at 902-854-3429. For festival and other information, contact Bernard at 902-854-2324 or online at the festival’s website www.evangelinebluegrassfestival.ca.
