Gunner & Smith play at the first annual Chesterfest in Prince Albert on Friday. The festival featured more than 102 couches, loveseats and armchairs as seating. (Brady Bateman/paNOW Staff)

By Brady Bateman

Comfiest festival in the prairies

Chesterfest draws large crowd

Jul 6, 2019 | 9:51 AM

The comfiest festival in the prairies opened its gates in Prince Albert on Friday, and saw hundreds of people come to take their place on the couch.

The first annual Chesterfest, which featured more than 100 couches, loveseats and armchairs as seating, saw an overwhelming turnout, far exceeding the organizers initial plan.

“It’s just been amazing so far, I don’t think we could have asked for a better first day with the response we’ve received and the amount of people that have come out,” organizer Joel Rohs said during the festival’s first night.

“We’ve already learned that we’re definitely going to need more couches for next year. There will definitely be a Chesterfest year two, we are so happy with the turnout.”

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The event, which continues today at Par Place, is open to all ages, with tickets available at the main gates. Attendees are encouraged to share seating with others, to inspire a sense of friendship.

The first evening featured bands Jay & Jo, The Garrys, Gunner & Smith, Close Talker and the Regina based band The Dead South as the headline act.

“I think this is the most people I’ve ever seen in Prince Albert get together for something other than a Raiders game,” Rohs jokingly said.

Attendees were quick to find their favourite chesterfield at the first annual Chesterfest in Prince Albert on Friday. (Brady Bateman/paNOW Staff)

“It’s just amazing to see so many people come out, and we still have another full day. We hope everyone comes back to see the other great acts that we have in store.”

Rohs added that tarps have been purchased in case of rain, but no matter the weather the show will go on.

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brady.bateman@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @TheDigitalBirdy