The Berry Jam festival shone with a fantastic musical line up on July 8 in Kincaid. Bouvier’s Berry Basket, a U-pick berry farm north of Kincaid, played host to the third annual music event. The day included a line up of top notch musical performances, a farmer’s market with over a dozen vendors, children’s activities and, of course, berry picking.
Because of the sweltering sunshine, the Bouviers set up large tents in the yard for shade. The festival-goers sat in their lawn chairs well covered. The market vendors set up their tables in the area under the line of tall trees. The Bouvier’s also made available plenty of water as well as cooling ice cream with fruit toppings. There were also children’s activities to keep the event a family affair with bouncy castles, face painting and a singalong.
The main stage performances started with the opening ceremonies at 2:30 p.m. Then local favourite Scott Heatcoat took to the stage to ham it up with his accordion injecting some fun into the afternoon. He was followed by the folk duo Zonnis who played several songs from their new album, Rise of the Sheep. Frank Janky and the Darktones shook up the audience with a fun set and some humour. The up-and-coming musician Tenille Arts played a long set and debuted her song “Alabama” for the appreciative audience.
The much-anticipated performance of Belle Plaine and Blake Berglund captivated the audience. Berglund won the SCMA’s Roots Artist of the year. Their two styles combined with excellent storytelling drew the audience into their performance.
Back to Mono and Scott Pettigrew also performed to close out the evening. The grande finale ended with The Weight. The audience was invited to stay for the fireworks show once it turned dark.
Throughout the day visitors were able to pick fruit while listening to the performances. The Berry Jam festival continues to attract the public with its diverse music, flavourful berries and family atmosphere. The friendly Bouvier family makes every visitor feel welcome.
Bouvier’s Berry Basket opened for U-pick services in 2000. It is located 12 km north of Kincaid on Highway 19. The Saskatoon berry, strawberry and Haskap seasons are completed and the cherry harvest has begun. Those wishing to come and pick are recommended to check the Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/bouviersberrybasket/) for updates on the progress of fruit crops and picking times.
