The craziness that comes with Stampede is not that far away, but before we get into the booze-soaked afternoons of Bud Light Lime and Shania Twain on repeat, we should all take advantage of the first-rate marathon of music, art and film that is hitting our city. The Sled Island Music and Arts Festival is back and better than ever this year with an all-star line-up that has more raw talent than all 13 years of American Idol combined. Whether you’re a loyal supporter or a first-timer, read on because we have the scoop on how you can pick up free tickets to experience Sled 2014.
Back in 2007, this grassroots festival was just getting started. With only 6,000 people in attendance, Sled was more of a well-kept secret, but fast forward to 2014 and the third week of June has come to represent a high point in Calgary culture with attendance now estimated at roughly 30,000. There is a special energy that comes with over 200 bands and artists playing their hearts out in parks, bars, churches, halls and even houses in downtown and surrounding neighborhoods that you really won’t experience in the same way in too many other places. Even the most experienced of festival people who attend Sled will agree there is something very unique that happens here every summer.
The full line-up has been announced and this will be a year to remember. Among some of the bigger names this year is St. Vincent, whose incredibly talented Annie Erin Clark showcases musical musings that are beautiful, anxious and really evade any specific genre. The much-loved experimental folk/country band from Portland known as Blitzen Trapper will be in attendance, and with one listen to their now classic album “Furr” you’ll be hooked for life. This year the fiery red-headed alt-country sensation Neko Case will also be serenading audiences at Olympic Plaza along with the reunited super group Rocket From The Crypt and England’s Spiritualized, known for their own brand of shoe-gazing rock.
Lucky for you, Notable will be giving away two sets of tickets for both Friday June 20th and Saturday, the 21st to the Olympic Plaza shows, which means that you and a friend will get to catch some of the major star power mentioned above during the Sled weekend. To enter the contest for a pair of tickets, simply fill out the form below.
Before the mayhem and hedonism of chuck wagons and corndogs takes over, make sure to get your 10-speed and head to one of 30-plus venues so you can join the fun of what is arguably one of the best things about living in Calgary.
*Contest open to participants across Canada; own transportation required. Photo courtesy Sled Island
Cover photo: Zola Jesus at Sled Island