Memories, music, merriment make Craven Country Jamboree

Four days of country music and partying with friends and family — and new acquaintances — are set to begin with the opening of the Craven Country Jamboree.

More than 20,000 people are expected, temporarily turning the grounds in the Qu’Appelle Valley into Saskatchewan’s third largest city. 

It’s a chance for people to let loose, like Doug Westhouse, who is at the jamboree for his 11th time.

“Partying? It doesn’t matter how old you are. You gotta have fun,” he said.

For others, like Barb Dedi who has been going to Craven since the 1980s, returning each year brings back memories.

“It’s all fantastic. My husband and I got engaged here. We were called up to the stage,” she said.

For performers, this is the opportunity to get in front of some of the larges crowds of their career — so far.

“Last year, we were playing the beer gardens right after Dallas Smith and there were about 10,000 people out here,” said Alex Runions.

“It was awesome.”

The Regina singer — whose hometown is Kipling — will be on the mainstage Friday night. Performances began in the beer gardens — known as Leopolds Tavern — on Wednesday evening.

Gates opened on Tueday to allow in those who arriving early to camp.

ASalloum@rawlco.com
Follow on Twitter: @AlecJSalloum