The beloved Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival is back for its 11th season this weekend, promising an unforgettable blend of different genres of music, arts, and community at Cottonwood Acres just outside of Portage la Prairie.
This year's festival is headlined by none other than Canadian folk legend Valdy, a two-time Juno Award winner best known for his 1972 hit Rock and Roll Song. Valdy will perform three times over the weekend, including two mainstage sets and a special Saturday evening workshop alongside Winnipeg's Tracy K and Jamie Steinhoff Blues Duo and Kelly Bado.
"It’s like spending a weekend with Valdy," said Artistic Director Josh Wright, adding that audiences will experience an 'up-close and personal' connection with artists on the festival's intimate stages.
Valdy's appearance holds special meaning for Festival Coordinator, Linda Omichinski.
"Fifteen years ago, he performed in our home as part of the Home Routes circuit and said our property would be perfect for a festival," she recalled. "That planted the seed, and now we're in our 11th year."
Beyond the music, Whoop & Hollar offers a wide variety of activities, including T-shirt stamping for kids, wood carving workshops, creative poetry sessions, and the Cottonwood Trail, which will feature human lanterns designed by local artist Yvette Cuthbert. Artisan Alley will showcase local vendors, face painting, henna tattoos, and food trucks.
A second venue on site, the Harlequin Hangout, housed in a quaint red barn, will host acoustic jam sessions and performances by emerging artists.
"It's a really fun, laid-back space," said Wright. "You might even jam with some of the mainstage acts during the midnight campfire session if you camp overnight."
Festivalgoers can also enjoy a free barbecue lunch on Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., sponsored by Circle K Elite. For those without transportation, a free shuttle will depart from the Herman Prior Centre at noon, 4:00 p.m., and 8:00 p.m. Tent camping is available on-site, with cozy spots nestled in the tall reed grass.
On Sunday, the festival shifts to Island Park for a free afternoon concert series featuring Shawn Pallister, the Janzen Boys, and a final set from Valdy.
"It's a community outreach event," said Omichinski. "A great way for people to get a taste of the festival."
Tickets for Saturday are $60, with youth half-price and children 12 and under free.
For tickets and the full schedule, visit www.whoopandholler.com or head to Pharasave Portage la Prairie.
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