LEAF Fall 2009

I met my friend Michelle again at the Lake Eden Arts Festival on October 17th-19th. This is a bi-annual hoodang and as a music festival junkie, I feel qualified to say that this one is unlike all others.

Here's a montage of some clips I took at the festival this Fall:


I love this shindig because:
1. It has brought in some of the most talented international artists I've ever seen and has introduced me to a variety of other cultures' indigenous instruments.
2. It's an interactive experience. From didjeridoo workshops to contact improv dance classes, the festival pulls you in as a participant so that you are not merely an observer/critic. Everyone is encouraged to bring their instruments and there are jam tents set up all over. Every stage is set in front of a dance floor to encourage anyone and everyone to contribute artistically.

3. Bon fire drum circle dance party. 'Nuff said.
4. It's a big camping trip in a beautiful location. It's centered around a lake with a zip-line and water slide
5. It's community/family oriented, and it's rather small, so I would recognize familiar faces all weekend rather than feeling like I was swimming in a mob at all times. This small community feeling seemed to hold people accountable to their actions. Much like the whole don't-fart-in-an-elevator-because-everyone'll-know-you-did-it rule, people were very considerate and kept the campgrounds clean.

Here's another video that someone put together of this fall's festival: