PORT HARDY—The Tri-Port Music Festival returns for its fourth appearance on the North Island. But it will be sporting a new location and a new, two-day format.
The Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute band Willy and the Poorboys will headline the event on Aug. 9 at the Old Lukwa Mill site, just off Highway 19 on Goodspeed Road in Port Hardy.
Tickets went on sale recently for the musical extravaganza, hosted by Centrepiece Productions and Providence Place.
The first three festivals were held at Cluxewe Resort, but promoter Dave Stevenson said he sought another location due to the lack of available camping for festival-goers at Cluxewe’s campground.
The new location, situated just south of the Quatse River bridge, has nearby access to two campgrounds, though neither is affiliated directly with the festival.
The traditional, full-day festival will run beginning at noon Saturday, Aug. 9, with a variety of Vancouver Island-based acts including Bryden Street, the Crash Palace Cowboys, Jamie Taylor, the Dave Blinzinger Jazz Band and the North Island’s Jam Shack Araknids.
Stevenson also plans a Friday evening event Aug. 8 open to local performers, in a format akin to an open mic night.
In addition to music, the festival will feature a range of merchandise and food vendors.
Early-bird tickets to the festival are $25 through June 30, and are available at Cafe Guido and the Port Hardy Chamber of Commerce. Beginning July 1, tickets will cost $30. Cost is $15 for children 13-under, while kids three-and-under get in free.
Those interested in setting up a vendor booth, volunteering at the festival or seeking tickets or other info may call Stevenson at 250-230-0776.