Festivals and Fun

The warm air of summer also brings the introduction of local festivals. We are very fortunate on the southwest corner of Newfoundland and Labrador to have numerous festivals take place in our back yards. Each festival is a little different but the main thrust is to encourage residents to network with other residents of their communities in a great social setting. Commencing July 27-29^th, one of the longest running festivals of the Province is taking place in the beautiful Codroy Valley. In 1982, the Codroy Valley Lions Club wanted to create an opportunity to collectively showcase these musical wares and the concept of a folk festival was introduced. This newly created Codroy Valley Folk Festival was to serve a threefold purpose: 1) offer a location for local musicians to publicly display their many talents; 2) provide a social event, or gathering place, for local residents and visitors; and 3) be a source of funding for local organizational activities. The Lions Club was successful in forging a partnership with the Codroy Valley Fiddlers' Association and the Codroy Valley Recreation Association in this major undertaking. Many of the youth who have performed down through the years have pursued a musical career as adults. Today, a partnership between the Knights of Columbus, Fiddlers' Association, St. Ann's Guild and the community at large ensures that the tradition continues. While the festival has dabbled with outside entertainment for a brief time in its history, it now remains true to its roots in showcasing local entertainment. 

I would strongly encourage everyone to take in this wonderful opportunity to witness this great family event at the

 Recreation Complex, Upper Ferry, Codroy Valley, Route 406 from July 27-29^th!

This Years Festival is a tribute to Jerome Downey



Sherman Downey, a long time participant in the festival and now international musician

 for more pictures visit http://www.thegeorgian.ca/Slideshow/1990/Codroy-Valley-Folk-Festival-2009/9