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Summer has arrived; OK officially it isn’t due until June 20 but if you have been outside in the last two weeks I am sure you would agree that it has decided to take the express route here. The timing couldn’t be better, as the first summer festival of the season in Westman will be taking place this Saturday.
The free festival frolicking folks will be gathering at the Enchanted Forest for the fifth annual Barnes Burner. Well, I guess the actual location is 1735 Rosser Avenue East, but once you make your way to the beautiful land you will understand how it got its nickname. You feel as though you have stepped out of Brandon and entered a magical place filled with great vibes, excellent tunes, wonderful friends, and a brilliant cause.
What began as a small musical fundraiser for the Marquis Project has bloomed into an annual event bringing together friends, funds, and fun. This year the donations are going towards what creator Dave Barnes values most in life, the environment. Barnes has been instrumental in inspiring young minds in Westman to care for the planet. His crew of eco-crusaders have been the driving force of the community gardens in Brandon along with other earth friendly endeavours.
To go with his powerful crew of land lovers Barnes has gather some impressive names in Brandon music to provide the entertainment. In the lineup are a few of my favourites including Effect & Cause, a band currently working on its first full-length album after dominating many band blast competitions and experiencing success with their LP “Gavroche.” Fresh off of their Eastern tour, Take with Audio will be making their way back to Brandon to join the festivities. Bassment Revival, a band I find reminiscent of . . . well, The Band will also join the mix. Marty Finnie & Friends promise to make an appearance (fingers crossed) and a few surprises are in store as well. DJ B'Zwax of Assinibeats fame will be spinning some tunes in the later hours. On the mic and fresh from graduation, I will be dolled up and ready to enjoy the Barnes Burner as I MC alongside Dallas Hulley.
As this is a fundraiser the organizers are asking that you bring your good spirit and $20 donation towards a sustainable planet. Donations this year will support Brandon's Good Vibes Tribe in their quest to purchase and retrofit a biodiesel school bus for the community.  Good Vibes volunteers organize community fund-raisers and grass-roots education:  Dances, concerts, bicycle and food security events.  In keeping with the sustainability theme, the event will only provide parking for bicycles. This means you can come by cab, bus, walk or bike, but drivers will have to park on the street or make the hike from the Green Spot, which has graciously made its parking lot available..

In keeping with a safe celebration for everyone, security has been stepped up this year. All ages are welcome, but drinkers are asked to respect the property and the law, so underage drinking will not be tolerated.  Barnes also requests that guests not bring glass containers, as broken glass and barefoot ecstasy don't mix well.  And for those who remember last year's extravaganza . . . yes, this time the Barnes Burner has fire permits!

This promises to be the party you don't want to miss! The gates open at 5 p.m. with the first act hitting the stage at 6. The main stage shuts down at midnight.  Summed up by Barnes himself “all in all, this year's Burner will be the rockin' best yet. And your sweet spirits will make it that way. See you on the 29th”!