The Stratford Live Music & Food Festival overcame the elements to enjoy a successful weekend of live bands and tasty grub.
Extreme heat followed by dampened conditions didn’t keep festival-goers from enjoying themselves during the June 21-23, 2024 event.
“It was just amazing, and so well-attended. So many people braved the heat and dealt with the rain. Everyone who came had a wonderful time, and the organizers are all so happy,” said event coordinator Carrie Clark.
“I feel like all the work we did prior is a blur. We worked so hard to get things ready, and it all went smooth. It was so hot – which was worrisome – but things evened out. We felt really good about this year’s festival.”
Formerly the Stratford Ribs & Blues Festival, it has evolved over time into its current structure, which plays host to a number of artists from different genres and different food vendors. It is a celebration and much-anticipated event for the area.
“All the bands and entertainment were incredible. It was just electrifying all weekend. There were phenomenal performances, and on Saturday night you could feel the vibration and energy despite the rain and mist,” she said.
“The happiness on people’s faces showed us we did this right, and we love putting this on for our community.”
Their by-donation community breakfast – with proceeds going to the Local Community Food Centre – was also a hit.
“We were so happy to make that connection. There were 120 people who came out in downpour weather. It went over so well, and we’d love to do it again,” she said.
One major reason the event was so successful was the work of all those volunteering.
“They are just so vital to our event. There are over 125 people that support us in that manner, and we work together so well,” she said. “Most of our volunteers return year-to-year and look forward to it. They’re so good at going with the flow, and make this look seamless.”
The community event is important to the committee, as it brings international and local talent to the forefront. But they want to hear what attendees have to say.
“We recently launched a survey to see what people thought of the event. We want to know what they like and see what changes might be suggested. It’s so important to hear from people who attend,” she said.
“We had great attendance, and it was comparable to other years. Some families may have struggled to come out due to the extreme heat, but it was a lot of fun. Everyone seems to have had a great time.”
Clark knows this event would not be successful without the people who support it.
“We are thankful for sponsors, food trucks and vendors, musicians, volunteers and the community support. It was truly a pleasure to bring this to life,” she said.
“We are so grateful for our community sponsors who without their generous donations this event would be the success it has evolved to."