Summer is finally upon us, and that means one thing for residents of our nations capital Bluesfest time! For those who have never attended Ottawa’s largest annual outdoor music festival, it’s an event one needs to experience to understand!
The show first debuted in 1994, when five thousand music fans came out to see Clarence Clemons perform at Majors Hill Park. In the 18 years since, the festival has seen a variety of venues, an increasing number of talented performers, and a diverse assortment of music genres. Refreshment services have also evolved, guests can now enjoy a wide variety of international cuisine on site, with tents offering traditional Indian, Greek, Thai, and Middle-Eastern meals. Of course, Canadian classics are also readily available; smoked meat sandwiches, poutine, and Beavertails are offered in abundance. Nearby Mill Street Pub’s large patio is a comfortable venue to take in the sights and sounds, whilst enjoying a fresh brew.
Now a staple of Ottawa summers, this year’s week long show is expected to attract more than 350,000 music fans. The 2012 line up will feature a number of pop, rock, and hip hop musical guests, including LMFAO, Iron Maiden, Norah Jones, and Lauryn Hill, among others. Tickets can be bought as day passes, ranging between $40 and $65. An unlimited week long passport grants you access to every show, and is available at $375.
If you’re a music loving, Ottawa-area apartment hunting individual, you’re in luck! CLV Group is currently offering full 12-day Bluesfest passports to anyone who signs an immediate or July 1st lease on an apartment in the Ottawa area*. To view current CLV Group apartment availabilities in the Ottawa area, please visit https://www.clvgroup.com/rentals/Ottawa.
*Hurry! This exciting offer is valid for a limited time only. Conditions apply; please contact a rental agent for more information. E. & O.E.
Not in Ottawa but still want to rock out under the summer sky? Check out other exciting music festivals coming this summer:
Rock the Park – London, Ontario
For all of those classic rockers out there. In its ninth year, Rock the Park will be featuring exciting headlining acts such as I Mother Earth, Bush, 54-40, Boston, and more! Runs from July 26th 28th; get your tickets at www.rockthepark.ca.
Limestone City Blues Festival – Kingston, Ontario
The 16th annual Limestone City Blues Festival will once again bring classic blues beats to beautiful downtown Kingston. From August 23rd-26th; performers include Roxanne Potvin, Curtis Salgado, and David Gogo & Rhythm Haints. For more information, visit www.kingstonblues.com!
Veld Music Festival – Toronto, Ontario
One of many summer concerts to hit Toronto this summer, Veld Fest will be held in Downsview Park on August 4th and 5th, and will offer a variety of electronic and house music shows. With headliners such as Deadmau5, Avicii, and Steve Aoki, it’s sure to be an exciting show! Visit www.veldmusicfestival.com for more information or to purchase tickets.
Shakespeare Festival – Stratford, Ontario
Sharing a name with Shakespeare’s birthplace, the Stratford festival offers a huge variety of musical and theatrical shows from April until September. One of the largest and longest running theatrical festivals in Canada, the festival attracts fans from all over the world. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.stratfordfestival.ca!
Bayfest – Sarnia, Ontario
Sarnia’s biggest music festival is in its thirteenth year, and is unique in its attempt to appeal to country, rock, pop, and funk music fans alike. A non-profit event, the festival raises money and awareness for local charities, and is trying to go green this year, attempting to reduce waste by 20%! This year’s headliners include Toby Keith, John Mellencamp, Iron Maiden, and Alice Cooper. Running from July 12th to 15th, find more information at www.sarniabayfest.com.
