It’s been a couple of years since its been an in-person event but the 2022 Regina Folk Festival kicked off last night with a full slate of performers and an evening performance from the New Pornographers.

There are three days of musical acts and all sorts of fun and activities involved, all at Victoria Park.
“People can expect a classic Regina Folk Festival experience,” said Amber Goodwyn, artistic director of the festival. “We have free daytime programming on our Sunlit Stages. We have all kinds of crafts and cultural events that people can check out, including art exhibitions and artist talks as well. And then at night we have main stage performances by incredible artists travelling from all over Canada and the States.”

Among the folk festivals in Western Canada, Regina’s version stands out.

“It’s a folk festival located right in the centre of a city. We’re one of the few Western folk festivals that provide free programming.” Goodwyn said. “What we mean by that is that we’ve got concerts going on all weekend that people can pull up a chair or sit on the grass and watch.”

There’s also a children’s tent and experiences around the park from some partnerships, including the Dunlop Art Gallery.

Pop-up peformances from dancers and other entertainers will be happening, and people can also enjoy the many food trucks around the area.

“It’s really a huge party (and) a great way for the community to come together in the name of music and culture,” she said.

Those who aren’t able to attend the festival can check out their programming on the festival’s website.