INNISFAIL – Country music fans braved hot and cold temperatures for the Ivan Daines 42nd Annual Country Music Pick-nic.
The event took place Aug. 8 to 12 and featured dozens of local and international artists from across North America, including Grammy nominee Jimmie Dale Gilmore, internationally renowned artist Bill Kirchen and multiple Juno award winner and Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, Russel deCarle of Prairie Oyster fame.
“I’ve known Ivan for years and he’s been trying to get me (and Prairie Oyster) here and it finally worked for me this year,” said deCarle, who made his first appearance in Innisfail Saturday.
“It’s fantastic. It’s great to finally get here,” he added, noting the support he’s received over the years.
“That’s why I’m still out here doing it, because of that kind of support. I have always had incredible support with (Prairie) Oyster and in my solo career now I have the same kind of support,” said deCarle.
After 46 years on the road as a musician, he is still going strong.
“I’m really busy. People don’t hear me on the radio very much these days, but I’m making new records that I feel are the best stuff I’ve ever written or recorded, playing with great people and having more fun than I’ve ever had.”
He let his sense of humour shine through.
“I’ve played the Ivan Daines Country Music Pick-Nic and I can retire now,” he added with a chuckle.
Organizer Tanya Nydokus said numbers were down this year early in the week, partially due to very hot temperatures and vacation schedules.
“It’s been quiet up until (Friday),” said Nydokus, noting the increase in numbers Saturday. “The turnout now is amazing. We had a lot of people come in (Friday) night and they’re still coming in, so it’s great.”
Visitors also enjoyed country music, food trucks, concessions stands, barrel racing and several vendors selling clothing, jewelry and country music CDs.
Shelley Swenson and her family came all the way from Brooks to attend the event for the first time and see deCarle.
“(The music and entertainers) have been great,” said Swenson.
