August 12 &13 – Fort Macleod

This first annual event has signed some of the biggest names in Canadian country music, including: Terri Clark, Ian Tyson, George Canyon, Gord Bamford, One More Girl, and Trevor Panczak. Other performers include upcoming Canadian talent – an array of country performers who had to qualify for their place on the stage at auditions held in High River, Lethbridge and Medicine Hat this spring. In addition to great music, this festival is offering something for everyone, including hayrides, horseback riding, beer gardens and camping. For a sneak preview of some of the main stage talent, plan to take in the ‘showcase weekends’ at the Roadhouse in High River throughout the month of June. For tickets and more information visit the festival website at www.canadiancountryweekend.com.

Longview Music & Arts Festival – August 20 & 21 – Longview

Some call it ‘Longstock’ (the Longview version of Woodstock) but most music and art lovers call it good old fashioned fun for a good cause! The Longview Music & Arts Festival is an annual fundraising event, featuring 14-plus bands and numerous venders including local artists such as Bernie Brown and Gail Gallup. By all accounts this event is all about singing, dancing, beer gardens and unbeatable Longview hospitality. Admission is a donation – proceeds going to Heaven Can Wait – Animal Rescue Foundation in High River. For more information contact Eva Levesque: eva.levesque@hotmail.com.