The Bow Valley Jamboree returned this weekend for another edition of the beloved annual event. Begun around 2010, this music festival highlights local artists and typically attracts about 700 attendees.
Carole Stewart, an organizer with the Oxbow Arts Council, explained that the jamboree is a great way to bring people of all ages together to enjoy the southeast’s cultural offerings. “It’s really difficult for a lot of people to be a part of the arts and to find a place that’s close to our area to go and watch these musicians perform,” Stewart added that it’s also a good opportunity for upcoming artists to showcase their talents.
Two-time Saskatchewan Country Music Award winner Tegan Littlechief kicked off the event with an energetic performance. Kilted Wind, eN.O Dee, The Walbaums, Ryan Keown, The Bromantics, The UnCoolas, Six Days til Sunday also took to the stage to keep the party going.
The Oxbow Arts Council, an integral part of the jamboree, is passionate about bringing more arts and culture to the area. “We partnered with the school, the library, and other organizations to host events, including a couple of concerts this winter and likely more art shows,” Stewart noted.
Overall, Stewart described the event as a great success. “It’s so supportive in the southeast area here; all the people came to this event and just a lot of positive reviews. If you haven’t been through it, you need to come, then people realize what a great event it really is.”
Music wasn’t the only attraction at the Jamboree. “We had an artist tent where local artists can display their works, and people come to see it or ask questions,” said Stewart. There was also a merchandise tent with jewelry vendors, local baking, and various food vendors to satisfy attendees’ appetites. For the kids, a bouncy castle area provided fun and entertainment.
The whole town got involved, with the city of Oxbow hosting a car show ahead of the Jamboree and a pancake breakfast the next day.
Stewart mentioned that the Jamboree tries to add a special touch each year. Last year, they introduced a selfie station, which was a huge success, and this year it was used as part of a competition. Attendees who took a photo in front of it and tagged the council had a chance to win a prize.
This year, a local artist created a design for the posters, which was also featured on a shirt available exclusively at the event. “We had limited shirts with his artwork on the back, and you have to be at the Jamboree to get that t-shirt. So it’s really exciting to support this young fellow who is a very talented artist,” Stewart said. The shirts were a huge hit, selling out quickly.
This year’s Bow Valley Jamboree not only celebrated the region’s rich artistic talents but also strengthened the bonds within the community, leaving attendees and organizers excited for next year’s festivities