Change is coming to the Cape Tormentine Music Festival.
It was started in the region in the 1990’s, with the hope of bringing back visitors after the ferry port closed.
Spokesperson Elaine Skidmore says attendance has dwindled over the years, “Originally it was put on by volunteers, and before COVID, it was huge. But of course, COVID did what it did to everything else, and dwindled it. But this year, we are coming back bigger and better, and we have changed up the acts.”
The festival is being held July 31 to August 2, with music on all three nights.
It’s held on the former ferry terminal, “If you were going to PEI, this is the terminal that you sat at and waited to get on the boat. They actually turned it into a campground and that’s where they’re holding it. So not only do we have amazing musicians, but the scenery and beach there are incredible,” Skidmore adds.
Some of the acts to be featured this year include the Martin Boys, who are from Woodstock, New Brunswick. They recently saw their following blow up thanks to their appearance on Canada’s Got Talent.
Also performing, are Ivan Daigle, Shane Douthwright and the Mainlanders.
“It’s the intention to keep it with that kind of feel for the Maritimes, but I had two or three calls from a couple of bands in Calgary that have roots in Nova Scotia, and we’re looking at them for next year. We just want to keep it, growing as much as we can,” Skidmore says.
They’re adding food vendors for this year, which Skidmore says is something they’ve never had before.
Tickets are on sale now. For more information visit the Cape Tormentine Music Festival Facebook page or website.