The RM of Ritchot’s Homegrown Harmonies concert series is returning for a fourth summer, bringing live outdoor music to communities across the municipality.
The first show takes place May 28 at the Ste. Agathe Boat Launch, with performances continuing throughout the summer in Howden, Île-des-Chênes, St. Adolphe and Grand Point.
Danielle Peters with the RM of Ritchot Recreation Department says the event has continued to grow every year.
“The residents of Howden reached out to me last year saying, we want a show.”
Peters says that community quickly embraced the event after being added last year.
“They have our second biggest crowd of the year, so we are definitely going back there.”
Family-friendly atmosphere
The Thursday evening concert series is designed to create a relaxed and welcoming environment for residents of all ages.
“This is really just like a big family-friendly atmosphere,” Peters said. “Residents of all ages are invited to bring a blanket and a lawn chair and just enjoy an evening of connecting with your neighbors and entertainment.”
Concerts run from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., giving residents what Peters describes as “a little taste of the weekend.”
Performers range from solo musicians to full bands, with organizers aiming for a laid-back outdoor experience.
“We’re not really looking for an outdoor rock concert,” Peters explains. “It’s more of a laid-back chill, like a mini folk fest vibe.”
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Local artists prioritized
Peters says organizers prioritize local performers whenever possible, while also considering bilingual acts because Ritchot is a bilingual municipality.
The application process for performers closed at the end of March, and all 15 performance slots have now been filled for the season.
“A lot of people love coming back,” Peters says. “They love being outside and playing in a small community where the music is really important to them.”
Food trucks will once again be part of each event, featuring local vendors from around the region.
“It's nice to get a little treat once in a while, have a fun food truck come by and have an opportunity to allow people not to cook for a night when you’re already coming out to the park,” Peters adds.
Rain or shine
Peters says the concerts will go ahead rain or shine, with indoor backup locations available if needed.
“The word 'cancel' is not in my vocabulary,” she says with a laugh, adding, “I've had a chat with Mother Nature so hopefully she'll be my friend this year.”
Full schedules, performer lineups and food truck details are available through the RM of Ritchot Recreation Department’s Facebook and Instagram pages, as well as on the RM of Ritchot website.
-Written with files from Carly Koop.
