Experience Sandpoint's 40th and finest music festival
By Damen Rodriguez
Photo Courtesy of Festival at Sandpoint
Prepare to be serenaded, delighted and tickled by the musical extravaganza that is the Festival at Sandpoint! This highly anticipated annual event draws in music enthusiasts from far and wide, eager to soak in the harmonious melodies and unforgettable performances. Get ready to groove to the rhythm, because this year's festival lineup is like a Pandora's box of musical wonders, featuring legendary icons and rising stars that will leave you begging for an encore.
Against the backdrop of majestic Lake Pend Oreille, the Festival at Sandpoint unfolds like a symphony of sensory delights. Prepare to have your musical taste buds tantalized, as the festival serves up a diverse feast of genres that will make your heart sing. Classical symphonies, soulful jazz, foot-stomping folk and electrifying blues are just a taste of what awaits you. This eclectic ensemble celebrates the kaleidoscope of artistic expression and promises something for every discerning ear.
The festival isn't just a feast for the ears either. It's a feast for the soul. Local vendors grace the festival grounds, offering mouthwatering culinary creations, refreshing libations, and crafts that showcase the region's vibrant cultural heritage. As you mingle with fellow festival-goers, you'll forge connections and create memories that will make your heart sing long after the final note fades away.
This festival is a veritable playground for the whole family. The organizers understand the importance of cultivating a love for the arts in the younger generation, which is why they've curated a range of activities and workshops designed especially for children. From whimsical face painting to instrument petting zoos that ignite youthful curiosity, the festival provides a magical musical adventure for the little ones.
Amidst the euphoria of the festival, the organizers are also keenly aware of their responsibility to Mother Earth. Sustainability takes center stage at the Festival at Sandpoint, with a commitment to minimizing the event's ecological footprint. Recycling initiatives and the use of eco-friendly materials are just a few of the ways they're setting an example of responsible event management. The organizers hope to inspire attendees to harmoniously contribute to the protection of the environment, because let's face it, we want to keep dancing to the music for years to come.
I had the pleasure of chatting with Ali Baranski, executive director for the Festival at Sandpoint. With a sparkle in her eye and a contagious enthusiasm, Ali shared her excitement for the 40th anniversary celebration and the unique opportunity it presents to revel in the beauty of North Idaho, while also celebrating music and community. Ticket sales have been soaring, and the expected attendance of over 30,000 guests guarantees that this year's festival will be a record-breaking sensation. The outpouring of support from the local community has been overwhelming, allowing for increased capacity and making popular performances accessible to even more eager fans.
The festival is a sonic tapestry, weaving together the threads of local culture and global rhythms. You'll find yourself swaying to the infectious beats of Train, their catchy tunes filling the air with an irresistible energy. The blues virtuoso Gary Clark Jr. takes the stage, his soulful guitar solos sending shivers down your spine. REO Speedwagon brings their timeless hits to life, transporting you back to the golden age of rock 'n' roll. The String Cheese Incident takes you on a genre-bending odyssey, effortlessly blending bluegrass, funk and electronica into a musical fusion that defies categorization. And let's not forget Brit Floyd, the ultimate tribute to Pink Floyd, who will take you on a mind-bending journey through the iconic band's greatest hits. But the musical magic doesn't stop there. Ashley McBryde enchants the audience with her heartfelt country ballads, while the symphony performs a special rendition of The Princess Bride, bringing the beloved film's enchanting soundtrack to life. And let's not forget the local favorite, Michael Franti & Spearhead, whose infectious reggae-infused beats will have you dancing the night away.
To fully immerse yourself in the Festival at Sandpoint experience, a Season Pass is a must. With access to the entire lineup, you won't miss a single beat. These passes are always in high demand, so each year make sure to snatch one up before they disappear like hotcakes. (Season Passes for the 2023 season are already sold out unfortunately.) And for those who want to make a difference while enjoying the festival, volunteering is a fantastic option. By contributing your time and energy, you become an essential part of the community that brings this magical event to life.
As the final notes echo across the lake and the festival draws to a close, you'll carry with you a symphony of memories. The joyous moments of dancing under the stars, the shared laughter with newfound friends, and the indescribable feeling of being part of something greater than yourself. The Festival at Sandpoint isn't just an event; it's a transformative journey that leaves an indelible mark on your soul. So, mark your calendars, rally your friends, and don’t miss a beat of the Festival at Sandpoint. Be ready to be enveloped in a symphony of sights, sounds and emotions. Let the power of music guide you, let the beauty of Lake Pend Oreille inspire you, and let the Festival at Sandpoint be the soundtrack to your unforgettable summer adventure.
For this year’s lineup and to purchase tickets, visit FestivalatSandpoint.com.