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Bluewater BorderFest announces six of eight music acts

Troy Shantz A new music festival is eager to take full advantage of Sarnia’s soon-to-open Centennial Park.
BorderFest
Mark Perrin, left, and Nick Haynes, organizers of the forthcoming Bluewater BorderFest. Troy Shantz

Troy Shantz

A new music festival is eager to take full advantage of Sarnia’s soon-to-open Centennial Park.

“I don’t think too many events have been able to use the entirety of the park, and that’s one of our goals,” said co-organizer Mark Perrin said of the inaugural Bluewater BorderFest.

The two-day festival is scheduled for July 28-29, and will showcase eight international bands and musicians.

Sarnia’s own Eric Ethridge, Texan Chase Bryant, Frankie Ballard of Battle Creek, Michigan’s take the stage the first night, with another yet-to-be-announced act.

A pair of Albertans - Dan Davidson and Aaron Goodvin - and Louisiana’s Dylan Scott will perform on the 29th, with a headliner yet to be announced.

“This I think will rival any of the festivals going on,” said Perrin.

“The acts are top acts, huge YouTube views, huge concert play, and we’re just happy to bring their talents to Sarnia for the community to enjoy.”

The announced acts have a country flavour but Perrin was quick to point out many of the artists appeal to wider musical tastes.

“You can be a rock fan and still like country songs, you can be a pop fan and like country songs,” he said.

“That was really key, (to) try to come up with something for everyone.”

Bluewater BorderFest is installing a large 40x40-foot stage facing the hills in the park, allowing spectators to enjoy the sunset with the music.

The newly minted Suncor Agora and playground will also be used on the 29th, with events and activities designed for children.

Perrin is a Lambton College grad who and has spent much of the past decade working in sporting event promotion, especially motocross racing.

Co-organizer Nick Haynes was a volunteer with Bayfest, and collaborated with Perrin on Fireman’s Field Day in Corunna.

Both men are volunteer firefighters in Corunna.

“Myself and Nick and the others involved, we’re all heavily involved in the community in many events.”

Sarnia Coun. Brian White said the new music festival brings much-needed positive atmosphere to Centennial Park.

“News like this says to me we’re back in business,” said White.

“I think BorderFest will set a precedent in the new Centennial Park.”

Tickets and pricing will be available in the coming weeks, with a weekend pass costing $120.

For more information you may visit www.bluewaterborderfest.ca or facebook.com/BluewaterBorderFest.


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