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The Portage Potato Festival has accomplished 19 years of success at its annual event. Organizers and volunteers are hoping for the 20th to be bigger than ever.
Festival Co-chair Cindy McDonald says the committee is excited to host everyone this weekend at Rotary Park. There are lots of special entertainment acts lined up for the weekend to keep everyone on the grounds for Friday and Saturday.
“It is free entry into the grounds, and the best part is the free fries with McCain and Simplot. We have kids' entertainment and our big headliner for Saturday night, The Road Hammers. We are excited to meet them, and they have been great to work with.”
She notes that the committee has worked hard to make it a particularly special year for their 20th anniversary. Though Saturday will be the closing day, several performers and events are planned for Friday as well.
Opening the night on Friday is Beanee, followed by Nelson Little, and closing the night is the band Hicktown. Special to the opening day, however, is going to be the Central Plains Cancer Services ball game between McCain and Simplot.
McDonald adds that they couldn’t have pulled off the event without the support of all the businesses in the community that sponsored the festival, as well as all the volunteers and committee members dedicated to making this year a highlight with endless activities and contests.
“On Saturday morning, we will kick things off with a pancake breakfast. Everyone can come out and enjoy pancakes, sausages, and coffee while listening to some opening performers. Then, we will follow that up with our favourite Baby Spud Contest. It’ll be a lot of fun.”
Although years have been tough with weather in the past, the temperature is looking great this weekend for the festival. McDonald comments that the nice weather will make for a fantastic car show on the final day.
She says that they are always looking for committee members and volunteers to help with the event, especially next year, to ensure that the Potato Festival can keep going for another 20 years.
With all the fun events happening at the festival, you won’t want to miss it. Check out some pictures from last year's festival.
With files from Ryan Simpson