The 15th annual Lakes Bluegrass Festival will go on as planned Aug. 26-30 in Pine River.
Tim Roggenkamp, entertainment director of the festival, said the definitive decision came after Gov. Tim Walz’ announcement June 5 of allowing outdoor venues to host events as long as they don’t exceed 250 people at one time. Organizers will follow all the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention and state guidelines, including social distancing and follow a COVID-19 Preparedness Plan.
“We are a go, 100%,” Roggenkamp said this week in a telephone interview. “After the governor’s announcement it made us feel comfortable to host the festival. We have a lot of space at our new site.”
The festival will be hosted at its new site — the Lakes Music and Events Park, 1 mile north of Pine River. The bluegrass festival was growing out of its current space at the Cass County Fairgrounds in Pine River. The new festival location is situated over 24 acres of land and folks can easily space themselves out as necessary, organizers reported.
The festival will feature top bluegrass bands from across the country over four days of main stage performances, plus camping, food, workshops, jam sessions, food and more.
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“Whatever they ask us to do we will do to keep everyone safe,” Roggenkamp said. “We are very excited to move forward.”
Roggenkamp said with the new site they have a lot of work to do to prepare it for the festival — but it will be ready. The intent is for the Lakes Music and Events Park to not only be home to the Lakes Bluegrass Festival, but to other music events, family reunions, church services and more.
Event sponsors for the 2020 festival are still being accepted. Anyone interested in sponsorship can call 844-620-4727 or email info@lakesbluegrassfestival.com.
For updates and more information, go to www.lakesbluegrassfestival.com .
JENNIFER KRAUS may be reached at jennifer.kraus@brainerddispatch.com or 218-855-5851. Follow me at www.twitter.com/jennewsgirl on Twitter.
