Standing on the bank of the river, the moon gleamed off the rushing water. The water is higher than usual, in the throes of spring run-off. So much water flows by, the rocks below barely make a wave. The rapids that would normally be her have been straightened, like a bedsheet pulled tight to smooth the wrinkles.
Four of us stand on the river bank, our shadows thrown by the moon to the turbulent surface of the water. There are two telephone poles lying on the bank, clearly resting here temporarily. I can hear the beat of the music nearby. This night after the official festival, some staff and vendors remain. Music is being spun, and tribe folk dance under the last remaining wind and rain shelter. Black lights glow on fantastic painted plants, and twisting shapes adorn canvas. Despite all the light and sound just a short walk away, we four remain on the river bank for some time. The river holds our eyes for a commendable amount of time, but it is the telephone poles that arrest our attention. We devise a game of balance, attempting to rock the pole out from under the other person’s feet.
The things that amuse us.
In no way do I slight the festival. This weekend was Inshala, down near Fort Macmurray. (Ft. McLeod) The festival is in it’s fourth year, and growing nicely. Still a young festival, the vendors have not really flocked here yet. There were several nice stalls with lovely locally crafted items. As for food, you better bring your own, as there is very little to buy. The same goes for water. The pump on the camp site was not certified potable, and as the river is in flood, the water was even more suspect. There was no other water supplied, and the two consumables vendors did not sell large amounts of water. Fortunately, town was a short hop away. This event was also a leave no trace, pack it out event. This policy seemed to be quite well respected, and the festival grounds looked great by the end of the event.
There were two stages, both covered from crown to foot. Rain slid neatly off the tops, while the low sides deflected the wind. And wind in plenty there was. Especially as the damp nights wore on. The music went fairly late, past when I went to bed. There was quiet time in the mornings, right until late afternoon it seemed.
One of the most notable things was the family atmosphere here. Kids were encouraged and traveled in small herds all over the festival. Workshops took place, and there were smiles to be found all around.
All in all, a nice little festival, and great to start to the season. Bring your woolies, as the wind is brisk, and the possibility of rain this early in the season is high.
The nights of staying up late to serve tea to the late night parties, then getting up early to cater to the mid morning crowd have gotten to me. I look forward to grabbing a good night of sleep before heading off to Faerieworlds tomorrow.
Wherever you are, Be There 