Festival posts musical guests

For the 28th straight year, people in this North Idaho town and beyond eagerly awaited Friday’s announcement of the musical artists who will perform at the annual Festival at Sandpoint this August.

A Sandpoint tradition, the festival has become a favorite among residents and visitors alike.

According to Toni Lund, executive assistant and assistant production manager for the festival, last year there were 600 season passes available and this year they increased the number to 700.

“We started selling season passes in 2000 and people were a little wary so we only sold about 100,” said executive director Dyno Wahl. “By 2007 we increased the number available to 600, and we were sold out before we announced (the lineup).

“We want everyone who wants a pass to be able to get one,” Wahl said.

And for those who purchased passes on the faith of another fabulous lineup, they won’t be disappointed. But why do people buy the passes without even knowing who is performing?

“I think buying a season pass carries the same excitement of a present waiting to be opened. The anticipation of wondering what’s inside the box grows until that special day comes when you can rip off the wrapping,” Wahl said. “I do appreciate the trust that our festival fans put in us to buy the passes not knowing who is coming, knowing that we will present a quality season.”

The festival sold out the season passes midday Thursday.

But it is more than the music that draws people to the festival’s beautiful venue on the shores of the Pend Oreille River. It is the festive atmosphere and the opportunity to meet up with friends, enjoy food from several area restaurants that are on hand and take in the beauty of this quaint resort town.

For Sandpoint resident Tamara Scrimsher, it is the sense of community she feels when she attends the festival that keeps her and her family coming back year after year.

“You go there and you get to see people you do not see all year,” Scrimsher said. “The feeling of community is the first thing I think of when I think of the festival. And the fact that there is always great entertainment is a huge bonus.”

Scrimsher says the family atmosphere is another reason she and her husband, Brian, love to take their three children to the concerts.

“The kids also get to go and be with their friends and enjoy the music,” said Scrimsher.

As usual, there is always a variety of music that appeals to all ages. Organizers are bringing back some of the favorites who have performed to sold-out crowds over the last 10 years as well as bringing some new acts.

“We think it is a great mix of festival favorites and exciting new acts. It’s always hard to please everyone, but we think we’ll come close this year,” said Wahl.

Perhaps one of the biggest names this year is Michael Franti & Spearhead being billed as a dance concert on Aug. 13. Michael Franti, who in addition to his music is also known for his stance on several social justice issues, plays hip hop music which he blends with other styles including reggae, jazz, folk and rock.

In an effort to make the entertainment more affordable in an otherwise struggling economy, festival organizers decreased the individual ticket prices this year. While the family concert tickets are $5 each, the remaining concerts will range in price from $29.95 to $44.95 per ticket.

“We also paid less for performers this year,” said Lund.