Forget about the slow spring, forget about the lousy weather: the sun has returned, temperatures have risen. Barbecues are busy, so it can only mean one thing: It is almost Creston Valley Blossom Festival time. Posters are up, tickets are on sale, buttons are being sold, and the excitement is building.
The biggest annual celebration in the Creston Valley and the Kootenays kicks off on May 18 in the Prince Charles Theatre with the opening stage show. Headlining the action is multi-talented guitarist, comedian, singer, songwriter and one fine picker, Wendell Ferguson. Also on the bill is Creston’s own Velle Weitman, who, along with her trio, will no doubt bring the crowd to its feet with her violin and stage presence, proving that she can hold her own with anyone.
Surprise guests on the show will be the introduction of the contestants for the GoGo Grannies’ 50-Plus Gentlemen’s Challenge. The citizen of the year will also be revealed that night. Opening night tickets are available at Black Bear Books or the Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce.
One of the more popular events is the Lions Club street fair that begins at 9 a.m. on May 19. Organizer Rosi Schoof reports almost 50 entries at press time, but she still has room for another 30 or so participants.
Some of the best entertainment is free. You can’t miss the mammoth parade that winds its way down Canyon Street beginning at 11 a.m. on May 19. Clowns, bands, floats, horses, politicians, hot cars — is there anyone who doesn’t enjoy the parade? Come early for the best spot and bring the whole family.
On Saturday afternoon, beginning at 12:30, it will be time for the Millennium Park showcase featuring some stellar entertainment. Leading off is 60 Hertz, a Kimberley band that can do country rock, bluesy ballads and straight ahead rock ’n’ roll. Next we bring on some super senior’s line dancing, pipers from Creston’s Royal Canadian Legion branch, a group of fiddlers and a special appearance by Creston’s popular folk group, Peanut Butter and Jam, and there is more to be announced later. The best part is that the two-and-a-half-hour show is free. Bring your lawn chairs or sit on the benches.
Also on 16th Avenue, in front of the College of the Rockies, will be some special events for the children. The popular East Kootenay Community Credit Union’s kiddies train will be offering rides, look for some face painting and a bouncy tent will also give the small fry a chance to bob up and down just like bobblehead dolls.
The teen set has not been overlooked, either. On Friday night in the John Bucyk Arena, several local bands will vie for top honours in a battle of the bands style of musical evening — and if you guessed rock, that’s because the House of Rock is putting it together. On Saturday in Millennium Park, some unique, electronic inflatables will be launched, including motion events, games and much more all with the teenager in mind.
This is just a sampling of what’s going on at the Blossom Fest. Next week look for a special section in this newspaper reminding one and all, that the Blossom Fest, after 71 years, is still the best.
— BY HUGH JOHNSTON
