COLD LAKE – The Cold Lake waterfront came alive from Aug. 22 to 24 as the Summer Rush Festival once transformed a portion of land into a vibrant celebration of music, art, and community.
What began as a small backyard gathering has grown into an annual event that now draws hundreds of festivalgoers to enjoy live performances, family-friendly activities, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Led by the volunteer-run Wild North Eclectic Society, the festival has become known for its inclusivity and its focus on showcasing local talent.
Media coordinator and original board member Casey Zagoruy described the festival, saying, “Summer Rush is about ‘community,’ if I sum it up in one word. It’s a place to feel safe with music, your family, art and artists, self-expression, cultural expression. We actively try and incorporate family, multiple cultures, misfits - so it’s a melting pot of all that is good in our beautiful slice of Alberta.”
This year’s festival drew between 800 and 1,000 attendees, doubling its numbers from just four years ago. The lineup featured a mix of genres ranging from rock and folk to EDM and pop. Beyond the music, the grounds offered a kids’ zone with bounce houses and scavenger hunts, wellness workshops, a bustling vendor market, and food trucks serving local favourites.
Local beverage makers and artisans were also front and center, something Zagoruy said the festival is committed to highlighting.
Despite early doubts, support from local businesses and a growing out-of-town audience - about 40 per cent of attendees - Summer Rush has thrived. Reflecting on the journey, Zagoruy says it all started as a dream sparked by founder Ben Winterhalt, who wanted more opportunities for alternative bands in the area.
“I hope the takeaway is to not underestimate the little guy. To say it as it is, that’s who we are. But realistically, we want/hope for that feeling of ‘home’ to be remembered. We hope it’s a place you feel excited to bring your friends and family back to, yearly.”
