There's no snow on the slopes but the Asessippi Ski Area & Resort north of Russell hopes to attract a different type of clientele when its hosts the inaugural Subway Asessippi Folk n' Fest on Saturday, August 27.
"This is the first time we have hosted a summer concert, with the festival itself being the main attraction," said Roz Pulo, director of marketing for Asessippi.
In March of this year, the Kickin' it for Kids benefit concert raised funds for Kidsport Manitoba. But it was held during the ski season, when an average of 800 visitors are usually on site.
"The cottages trailside at Asessippi and at Lake of the Prairies are used year round and as the population in these areas increase it is important for us to offer more year round activities and events," Pulo emphasized.
To date four bands have been confirmed for the day-long event. Swamp Gas is a Neepawa band that plays acoustic folk, Irish and East Coast music. Tailwind is a Winnipeg based group that describes its music as a range from soul-driven folk to gritty Americana-esque. Stonypoint band members come from southern Manitoba and are known for their appreciation of traditional bluegrass and love of playing fast, with lots of toe tapping favourites. Fish & Bird is a five-piece indie-folk powerhouse with a wide variety.
Blue Moffatt, who joined the Asessippi Ski Area & Resort sales and marketing team earlier this year, is in charge of organizing the concert and associated events. Moffatt has years of experience working in both the tourism and hospitality industries, and has lots of extras lined up for festival-goers to take part in.
"Along with the music, we wanted to make sure this event has something for everyone - children entertainers, activities and lots of great hospitality all set in the beautiful valley," said Moffatt.
Eurobungy, face painting and a Farmers' and Artisan market are some of activities planned, plus lots of great food and beverages available at the ski lodge.
Advance tickets are $25.00 (a $5.00 saving off gate price), youth (6-17) $15.00, and preschoolers are free. Full details are available at www.asessippi.com.
Asessippi Ski Area & Resort is located just west of Inglis, near the Manitoba/Saskatchewan border.
