Movin' and Groovin' at the Filberg Festival

 

By Keith and Heather Nicol

       The Filberg Festival is a huge fundraiser for the Filberg Lodge and Park which has a spectacular location in Comox. This year they have over 140 artisans showing their wares plus 45 musicians performing at 2 stages over the 3 days- August 1-3.  What a great combination! The idea is you check out some of the remarkable work by potters, photographers, painters, jewelry, glass, textile and wood workers and then take in some music. When you get hungry you can buy some specialty food from some artisans or head for the food trucks. So the routine is shop, listen, eat and enjoy !

                               You could not ask for a nicer setting for a festival than the grounds at Filberg Lodge 

        Although the temperatures are suppose to be less than the heat wave that has been affecting the Comox Valley for the last few days, the trick will still be to stay cool.  So we will pass along some tips based on our past experience. Get there early. Not only will parking be easier to find but it will be cooler. Secondly, bring plenty of water so you don’t get dehydrated. Thirdly, dress with light shorts and shirts and bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.  We also brought small foam pads so we could sit on the grass or a low rock wall in the shade if the seats were all taken.  

                                            Railroad Tye and friend played an entertaining set on the Garden Stage

On Friday, August 1 we opted to listen to music at the shady waterfront Garden Stage which some musicians said must be the best stage to sing at in B.C. ! There was a little breeze off the water and with the shade - it was the perfect temperature for listening to music. We caught Railroad Tye and we loved his varied country - bluesy music. Since we were so comfortable we decided to stay and listen to Kye Coski , a young very talented performer from right here in the Comox Valley. He has a gentle voice that works perfectly with the folksy - celtic- country music that he plays. Keep your eye on this performer.  At this point we decided to get up and check out some of the over 140 exhibitors on site before heading home for the day. 

                       Don't leave the kids behind..there is a special area for kids with games, face painting etc.

          But there is lots more music to be played at the Filberg Festival . You still have Saturday, Aug 2 and and Sunday, Aug 3 to come and check it out. We are looking forward to hearing Great Lake Swimmers, Lucarno , Rockcod and many other groups so head on down to  Filberg Lodge Park this weekend. Also it is a great place to get that unique or special gift. With so many varied exhibitors there is something for just about everyone. And Remember the Filberg Festival is a valuable fundraiser for the Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park in Comox, B.C. For more information on the complete festival schedule see: filbergfestival.com  See you there tomorrow. 

     There are some very fine artists attending this year's event- Here is the beautiful pottery of Gordon Hutchens