ORONO -- Bands from all over Ontario and as far away as Quebec are set to take the stage during the 5th annual Orono Bluegrass Festival and Old Tyme Country Jamboree. The event is set for May 23-25 at the Orono Fair Grounds. And though it's more than a week away, interest is high, said Dickson Raynard, one of the event's organizers.
"We've sold over 100 trailer sites," Mr. Raynard said. Last year, only 50 or 60 advance trailer sites were sold, though eventually about 150 trailers showed up.
This year's lineup includes a number of bands from near and far, including fiddler Mark Sullivan from Bowmanville, Alicia Robiceau from Oshawa and the Foggy Hog Town Boys from Toronto.
The festival has grown dramatically over the years, largely by "word of mouth," Mr. Raynard said. This year, 3,000 brochures have been sent out to bluegrass organizations across the province and it is expected turnout will be good.
Tickets are $35 for the weekend in advance and $45 at the gate. Day passes are also available for $10 for Friday, $25 for Saturday and $12 for Sunday.
"People we talk to are really excited about coming," Mr. Raynard said.
For more information, visit www.murdocksmusic.com or call Jim Hayward at 705-778-9887.