Havelock Jamboree Celebrates 30 Years
Growing up, we all have something we remember each summer that holds a special memory – something you look forward to because has become a tradition. For me those memories all include music. I grew up in a family where gatherings were kitchen parties, guitar players filled all the kitchen chairs. I also grew up going to the Havelock Jamboree – it was a family affair as my uncles rocked the stage with The Swamp Band.
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In August 1990 the Havelock Jamboree was born – for three days 1000 country music fans camped on 10 acres with many well-known local bands crossing the stage. Since then the festival has grown from its small town country roots and now includes full service grounds, paved roads, street lights and some 600 hydro campsites that allow campers to stay comfortably. The festival grounds now encompass 500 acres, and come that special week in August the grounds are packed with friends all looking for that one-of-a-kind Havelock Jamboree party.
Touring around the grounds you will see smiling faces everywhere, the droves of people who attend are all just so happy to be brought together for a common interest. Friendly faces, laughter and ‘Happy Havelock’ greet you as you travel through any of the 20 camping fields.
Over the years the Jamboree has been host to over 4200 award winning musicians with names like Kenny Rogers, Ronnie Hawkins, Reba, Randy
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Travis, Loretta Lynn, Alan Jackson, Blue Rodeo, Lee Bryce, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Doc Walker, Lonestar, The Band Perry, Tebey, Gord Bamford & George Canyon, gracing the twin stages – and the list goes on and on. 2019 added a little rock twist to the lineup with April Wine and Randy Bachman (The Guess Who & BTO). CCMA winner Brett Kissel astounded with his stellar performance, inviting not only the Road Hammers to join him on stage but the Washboard Union as well! The Jamboree’s 30th birthday brought to the stage a long list of predominantly Canadian performers, and the estimated 30,000 fans enjoyed every minute.
The team at the Havelock Jamboree work tirelessly to ensure every year is packed with fun, and without the countless volunteers the weekend wouldn’t go as smoothly as it does. The Jamboree also works hard to give back to the community that hosts it, and over the years has supported many local charities and endeavours.
This year I turn 35 – I have missed a few but for the most part have been attending the Havelock Jamboree for most of my life. The excitement leading up to that weekend is like a kid at Christmas, and the feeling as you pull into the fields is best explained as a feeling of coming home. After you have attended the Jamboree once, you become a part of the Havelock family.
By Emily Ireland
The Cottage Country Team congratulates you on 30 amazing years!
Happy Havelock!
