Merritt

Country's coming to town

Get ready for a boot-scootin’ good time at Merritt’s annual Mountainfest

by Kirsten Armleder

If you like all things country, then you’ll love the Merritt Mountain Music Festival. Now in its 16th year, Mountainfest draws country music fans from Western Canada and beyond. In 2008, attendees can look forward to premier outdoor entertainment in an upscale environment.

A Crowd-Pleaser: The fun at the Merritt Mountain Music Festival lasts well into the night.—photo by Dee Lippingwell

“Our desire is to create a different atmosphere in the campground,” said Lynn Robertson, vice-president of the company that manages Mountainfest. “The campsites are areas for friends to gather and have a good time . . . It’s more comfortable and secure. There is no general camping so (patrons) have to prebook their campsite.”

Additional comforts will be offered on the festival grounds as well.

“We’re creating a dine-by-the-river area that will have picnic tables, umbrellas and a place where people can go and order a really nice dinner,” said Robertson.

Mountainfest will continue to deliver the high-ranking music it is known for. With appearances this year by Sugarland, Sara Evans, Aaron Pritchett, Dierks Bentley, Aaron Lines, Gord Bamford, Jessie Farrell and the legendary Hank Williams Jr., there will be a variety of old and new, twangin’ and rockin’ country tunes.

The Judds will be the headlining act on Saturday evening. According to Robertson, it’s been years since this dynamic mother-and-daughter duo performed together; their stop in Merritt will be a one-night-only treat for Canada.

Along with the musical performances, there are several fun activities taking place in and around the site, including the finals for the B.C. Talent Search, horseshoe tossing contests, a treasure hunt and a fireworks extravaganza.

Event at a glance
Event: Merritt Mountain Music Fest
Location: Merritt, British Columbia
Date: July 10 -13, 2008
Info: www.mountainfest.com

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