Another fabulous day here in Blackstock, ON. For a festival that is only three years old, these guys have it dialed.

I woke up after about four hours of sleep and felt called to the music I was hearing at the Action Stage. I attended a Nia class with Susan of Fenlon Falls who curated the most amazing set list of empowering tunes to dance to.

I devoured a hearty tasty vegetarian lunch, which I discovered is primarily based on local organic ingredients, thus supporting the local farmers. So cool. There are over 300 volunteers and about 350 paying patrons; the capacity is capped at 700 so this festival is still intimate.

After lunch, I hit the women only Red Tent space, which provides female festival goers the opportunity to rest, reflect and learn about female-related issues and subjects. Clarity and Liz held beautiful space with a workshop on Mary Magdalene and her lineage.

Late afternoon, I had a much-needed siesta in the quiet and shade of the Healing Forest, before preparing for my last night, which I knew would be stellar.

Brenda McMorrow shares mantra. Photo by Zarah Calvert.

Pamela Germans plated her sacred music and recited her uplifting poetry, embracing freedom and social justice, with a smooth cello to accompany her. Brenda McMorrow played her magical mantras and heart-centred tunes and had everyone swaying and singing.

Chris Mapstone was amazing and set us on a sound journey of medicine music. Formerly of Parry Sound then Australia, he’s recently returned from down under and plays in the vein of Xavier Rudd, replete with digeridoo.

I had the opportunity to sing backup for Trevor Cape and the Field and rocked out to his heartfelt originals and a few covers (including “Dear Prudence”) Grateful Dead jam style. With David Celia on guitar you’re guaranteed some heavy riffs; that dude shreds.

I ended the evening with a late night dance party at the Glow Stage to the beats of Toronto’s Cookies and Cream, providing some old-school house and dub. After hours of dancing, I may have to ice my legs when I get home. But my heart is full. This is truly one of my fave festival experiences.

Trevor Cape and the Field. Photo by Zarah Calvert.

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