Wapiti 2012 Recap - Day 1

As the sounds of Wapiti's first band filled the evening air, festival goers began arriving in packs, continuing right up until MC Alya Ramadan of CBC's Daybreak South closed day one of the two day event. To say organizers of this year's music festival in Fernie are pleased is an understatement. Stellar performances, a jam packed refreshment garden, an energetic dance floor, an array of vendors, enthusiastic and helpful volunteers... from an attendee perspective, it seemed to flow almost effortlessly.

We arrived as Stellar Radio Choir finished their last songs on stage, happy with the new layout and stoked at the number of people already there. This "three piece garage rock and roll band" was a perfect way to begin the evening. Enjoying one of Fernie's local favourites - Red Girl, in between sets was a great transition as the evening progressed. Next up was The Boom Booms, and my did the crowd boom! From waiving side to side to jumping up and down, this band had everyone on their feet and shaking their booties. Last up was The British Columbians. And what a way to finish. Hints of The Black Keys and elements of jam bands, the crowd was mesmorised and was left wanting more. Thankfully, we're getting a whole lot more today!

Tickets for today's festivities are available at the door only. I would get there early to ensure you get one - if today goes anything like yesterday, it could easily sell out!

Congratulations Wapiti, we're impressed. And it's just the beginning...