Celebrate over 20 years of the John Arcand Fiddlefest! Founder, John Arcand, known worldwide as the Master of the Metis Fiddle started the festival in 1998 to celebrate the traditions of fiddle music, dance, and sound, and the tradition lives on! John Arcand Fiddlefest is, from its roots, a family affair, offering workshops, concerts, competition, and rich cultural experiences designed with youth in mind.
What to Expect at John Arcand Fiddlefest 2019
Workshops
From absolute beginners to experienced players, this festival offers workshops led by respected fiddlers, dancers, and guitarists from around the country. Included FREE with admission…
Competition
Whether you’re taking part in one of the largest fiddle contests in Western Canada or just observing, the competition aspect of the fiddlefest is sure to get your blood pumping and your toes a-tapping!
Jam Sessions
With fiddlers and fiddle-culture a-plenty, the John Arcand Fiddlefest will no doubt be host to a spontaneous jam session or two–as entertaining to watch as to participate.
Concerts
Evening concerts offer festival-goers a chance to kick back, relax, and enjoy the sounds of fiddle music–that is, until the old time dance that follows the Friday and Saturday evening performances! Also enjoy a wide range of performances on the mainstage Thursday, Friday and Saturday afternoons.
Children’s Area
Interactive and, of course, musical activities are always available in the children’s area!
Cultural Camp
A large part of fiddle culture in Saskatchewan is rooted in Metis traditions. To honour that, the John Arcand Fiddlefest offers Metis crafting, storytelling, dance, and, music at their cultural camp.
Camping
FREE un-serviced camping is available on site as well as concession.
Community
At 20 years and going strong, the John Arcand Fiddlefest is truly a community of fiddlers that transcends cultural backgrounds, countries, and ages that finds one-ness in music, dance, and plain-old FUN! You have to see it to believe it!
John Arcand Fiddlefest
When: August 8 – 10th, 2019
Where: John Arcand Fiddlegrounds, just off the Pike Lake Highway (#60) approximately 10 kilometres west of the city of Saskatoon
Website: www.johnarcandfiddlefest.com
Admission: One time gate fee (no charge for entering competitions, or participating in workshops) General admission is $60 per weekend per person or $25 per day. Children 12 & under are free with a parent or guardian. Admission is only at the gate and not sold in advance.
Transportation: FREE Shuttle Service from Saskatoon. See www.johnarcandfiddlefest.com/shuttle