Locales like Manitou Beach, Humboldt and Watson have made a name for themselves with lively music scenes, but there’s a newcomer in this neck of the woods.
Look out for Esk Fest. The tiny hamlet east of Lanigan on the number 16 Highway is entering the fold with its first concert night. Featured on stage will be noted Canadian singer songwriter Mike Lynch, originally from the Niagra region.
Lynch is crossing Canada on his BC or Bust Tour 2025, and he’s making a special stop in Esk on Friday, July 4.
Lynch’s old-style brand of country music has a fresh twist with a look at Canada and its unique vistas and off the beaten path wonders. Mike’s a veteran of road performing having shared stages with the likes of Barenaked Ladies, the Skydiggers, Fred Eaglesmith, Charlie Major, and even Roger Hodgson of legendary band Supertramp.
“I love the road, I love the scenery, but I mostly love a fun crowd,” says Lynch when he thinks about his affection for being a Canadian troubadour. Give a listen to songs like “Used to Dream I was a Cowboy” or “Trans-Canada Highway” and you’ll hear sentiments of Stomping Tom Connors, the strains of Murray McLaughlin, and a genuine southern (Ontario) drawl that wraps around the music like a broken in hammock.
Esk Fest is the brainchild of Colleen Therres and her husband Chris. She says they are one of three names in the community, so it’s a small but dedicated core.
“We were sitting around one evening thinking, ‘boy this would be fun,’ and I’ve always wanted to do it – and we have a big yard,” Colleen laughs.
Watson music aficionado Jim Haussecker helped hook the Therres family up with Lynch who is more than happy to make the stop on his cross-country junket for an evening under in living sky country.
The event goes rain or shine. Colleen says bring along your lawn chair, your beverage of choice and your love of great music. The evening includes a homemade smoky sausage meal courtesy of the Therreses. Tickets are $30 each and to get an advance ticket held, just call Colleen at (306) 425-8380. Doors open at 6 pm with the concert at 7:30.
Time for another great outdoor summer music evening, this time in Esk with the down-home stylings of Mike Lynch.