By Morinville News Staff
Morinville – Music, magic and dance will surround the Morinville Farmers’ Market July 19, all part of a special day in recognition of the popular product and produce market’s 11th anniversary in Morinville. The festival will combine the talents of amateur and professional performers from the region in a one-day entertainment showcase that has organizers eager to open the gates on the event.
“The street performers festival is so important because it is the first look at the up and coming talent Morinville has to offer,” said Morinville Farmers’ Market Manager Korien Sampson, adding her goal this year has been to make the market bigger and better with more vendors and more activities. “It is the grassroots performances that give the audience an up close and personal experience with Morinville’s talent. This festival makes a great outing for families.”
Morinville Festival Society Chair Paul Smith, who is slotting in the acts, said the production would rival last year’s efforts, both in terms of the entertainment acts provided and the carnival atmosphere of the event. Children and family activities include a bouncy castle, sparkle tattoos, cotton candy, mini donuts and children’s games.
“In the second year we have even more entertainment in store,” Smith said. “We will have French songs, a Loretta Lynn tribute artist, and four local singer /songwriters, plus the Smith Music Band Camp.
As is the case with most street performer festivals, participants are encouraged to throw a little something in the guitar case, particularly when the Smith Music Band Camp takes to the stage. Smith said monies deposited in the guitar case would be donated to the Morinville Food Bank Society.
In addition to funds raised via the performers, Sampson is planning a dunk tank as part of the day’s festivities. Proceeds from the event will help build the farmers market, which Sampson said has become an essential community landmark. Profits will be shared with the Friends of the Morinville Public Library.
The Morinville Farmers’ Market Street Performers Festival takes place (rain or shine) July 19 from noon until 6 p.m. The main show entertainment will run from approximately noon until 1:30 p.m. The Morinville Farmers’ Market is located in the Ray McDonald Sports Centre parking lot.
