Spences Bridge is busy preparing for its third annual Desert Daze Festival. The three-day event from August 17th to the 19th at the old school grounds presents a jam-packed musical line-up and a wide variety of delicious fruit and vegetables from nearby farms.
The apple-bobbing and seed-spitting contests remain one of the reasons the festival has garnered so much attention, in addition to the usual hot, sunny weather.
“The seed-spitting champion spat 27 feet and ten inches last year on his third try”, said Steve Rice, activity organizer and festival emcee. “The apple bob was popular with the kids, timed in 30 seconds with 21 apples.” Anyone up for the challenge should plan on joining the activities Saturday afternoon.
“We’ve planned more activities for festival-goers this year”, says Maya Chang, festival coordinator. “Our pickling workshop is back by popular demand and we have more vendors attending. This year, we’re excited to have guitar, writing, yoga, music history, and drumming workshops all taking place inside the school.”
Kite-flyer Dale Pattison has also been added to the program in hopes to fly his 11 metre show kite. “I find it really relaxing, you go out there and you just fly your kite and you think about nothing,” Pattison said. “I just love it, it’s my passion.” Attempts will be made Saturday and Sunday mornings during the Pancake Breakfast, hosted by the Spences Bridge Fire Department.
The festival kicks off on Friday with an aboriginal welcome ceremony by the Siska Indian Band Drummers. Over 20 acts will perform on an outdoor stage, surrounded by towering desert mountains. Favourite local musicians include Richie and the Fendermen from Lytton, Flat Busted from Spences Bridge and Mudville from Ashcroft.
For more information on artists performing at the 3rd Annual Desert Daze Festival, volunteering and workshops, visit www.desertdaze.ca.