Reprinted from Sax & Violins Magazine, November 29, 2019 – Toronto, Canada’s annual Winterfolk Blues and Roots Festival is back for its 18th instalment and has confirmed the first round of artists. Held from February 21-23, 2020, the three-day event will once again include the best of urban, blues, rock, jazz, country, folk and roots music, not to mention loads of yummy food options. The all-ages, weatherproof event will occur in downtown Toronto on Brunswick Ave (near Spadina Avenue and Bloor Street), and feature over 150 artists performing across five stages.
The annual festival was founded by Festival Director Brian Gladstone, who commented, “We’re thrilled that two Winterfolk’s stages are in the beautiful Annex Hotel, just steps away from the Tranzac. One of the hotel’s Winterfolk stages will be located in the hotel’s Cafe and Wine Bar, a tranquil room with a modern minimalist design and a glowing warmth. Shareable plates are on the menu, along with cocktails and a wine list curated by a local sommelier. Winterfolk acts will also be presented in the hotel’s more intimate room, the Annex Commons. We’re looking forward to bringing the talented artists of Winterfolk, both audience favourites and exciting new performers, to the Annex this February.”
The first confirmed performers include Lynn Miles, Jack de Keyzer, Swamperella and Wendell Ferguson. The festival will also host special tribute events, an awards ceremony, community stages, and themed musical workshops. Check out the full schedule here and/or the Facebook event page here.
Passes are now on sale and folks can save 40% on advance wristbands, only $15 untill December 31, 2019. Wristbands allow entry to 90+ performances and will cost up to $25.00 at the door.
Festival Dates & Times:
Friday, February 21, 7:00 pm – 1:00 am
Saturday, February 22, 1:00 pm – 1:00 am
Sunday, February 23, 1:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Festival Location:
Tranzac Club (three stages), 292 Brunswick Ave, Toronto, ON
Annex Hotel (two stages), 296 Brunswick Ave., Toronto, ON