Squid Fest Beach Party to move inland for one summer

By Mark Squibb

The beloved Squid Fest Beach Party is moving inland this year to accommodate over $650,000 worth of upgrades to the Festival Grounds.
The ‘Beach-ed’ Party will take place at the Centennial Softball Field on Salmonier Line.
The concert will be held on Saturday July 19 and will feature the Irish Descendents, the Navigators, KitchinParti, and Cripple Creek.
“It’s going to be a great night and our new, temporary location, it’s going to make it more interesting,” said councillor Mable Tilley during council’s April meeting.
Councillor Sadie King said the town was very fortunate to have an alternative site to hold the Beach Party.
“If the wind blows northeast, it’ll be a lot more sheltered,” said King, drawing laughter from around the council table.
“Very, very true, and well spoken,” agreed Tilley. “We all know what that lovely wind off the water is like. I’ve spent many, many, many a night at Squid Fest and wished you had your toque and gloves.”
Perhaps more significant than the relocation of the festival are the upgrades to the Festival Grounds.
Councillor Steve Winsor said the Festival Grounds will see significant improvements this summer, including construction of a new bandstand and accessible parking.
Later during that same meeting, council approved a recommendation from consultant Mills & Wright to approve Weir’s Construction as the successful bidder on the work at a cost of $645,668.
The bid was the lowest of seven received.
“It’s going to be a really nice new Squidfest venue for us,” Winsor said.