By Melanie Jacob
Journal Editor
mjacob@humboldtjournal.ca
As many people may have already heard, Kenny Shields has fallen ill and so will not be performing at this week's Streetfest. However, that news is only a small bump in the road for this year's end-of-summer bash.
"After a lot of discussion, we decided to stick with local bands partly because it's our first year and also because we would've had to spend more money," said Amanda Klitch, one of the organizers of the event. "We considered the pros and cons of both and felt it was the best decision."
It's a risky choice for them since they don't know how much this change will affect people's attendance. In the end, however, it might even turn out to be the best decision they ever made. The bands set to play on Friday night are the well known Gravel Hound and 40oz. Philosophy, who have made quite a name for themselves locally. The concert is now free for everyone, including kids, as long as they are with an adult.
The concert will open with Gravel Hound at 7 p.m. and conclude with 40oz. Philosophy at 9 p.m. The beer gardens will still be opening at 5 p.m. and everything else is still a go.
Overall, the concert is just a small part of the weekend. Anyone walking through will be able to see and enjoy the various vendors, music buskers, and unique foods. On Saturday in particular, the multicultural stage will be a set of new experiences for many residents. It will include various singing, dancing, and musical performances from various cultures and countries such as Scotland, the Philippines, Ireland, and Mauritius.
"We want to promote downtown and bring more awareness, so what better way than having local bands play and showing the talent we have?" asked Klitch. "Humboldt is growing and growing fast. We don't want to lose that downtown core."
The performers in particular on Saturday are also homegrown. There will be prairie belly dancers, DK Dance member performances, and Highland dancers. The acts will begin at noon and conclude with the Sound Cheque showcase at 7 p.m.
