ELY - For over 15 years the Boundary Waters Blues Fest has been entertaining the people of the North Country with some of the best blues music and top musicians from across the country and beyond.

Again this year, the stage is set against the backdrop of Fall Lake at the Longbranch in Winton.

“Aside from the beauty of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, what really sets this event apart is its family-friendly, back yard blues party, atmosphere,” said organizer Mike Jankovec.

“Our attendees are like old friends who gather each year in celebration of the blues and welcome you to join the party,” he said. “After the music, we all enjoy walking around and visiting with folks around campfires. Sometimes the musicians will even hang around at the fire for a little fireside acoustic jam. Any Boundary Waters Blues Festival veteran can tell you, we have the most unique and friendly blues festival anywhere, and the music quality is always over the top.”

The 16th annual BWBF begins with an indoor kickoff party on Thursday, Aug. 18 at the Longbranch. The fun shifts into high gear on Friday and Saturday with two outdoor main stage days. “We wrap things up on Sunday, Aug. 21 with our gospel brunch at the Historic Winton Church, just four blocks away,” Jankovec said.

The Lineup

Thursday, Aug. 18

-Kick off Party

Friday, Aug. 19

-Virgil Caine

-Chainsaw DuPonte

-RAMM Band with Paul Mayasich

-Brian Naughton

-DownTown Charlie Brown

Saturday, Aug. 20

-Daina DePrez

-Ross William Perry

-Kelly Richey

-Dealin’

-Larry McCray

Sunday at the Winton Church

-Daina DePrez

Camping

“If you know anything about the Boundary Waters Blues Fest, you know that camping is the way to go,” Jankovec said. “Late night campfires with no shortage of homegrown music add to the down home, family atmosphere of this event.”

Weekend camping passes allow for entire event camping. Primitive camp sites for both RV and tent camping are within sight of the performance area with VIP sites available along Fall Lake.

-Tent camping is $45 for the entire weekend. 

-RV Camping is $60 for the entire weekend.

-VIP camping on the lake is $75(RV or tent).

-Single day Saturday passes are $20 for a tent and $35 for RV.

“No camping is permitted at the event site without an admission ticket,” he said. “Campers without a wristband will be removed. Outside alcohol will only be permitted in the camping area. Camping prices listed are per person. Camping spots are not reserved unless special provisions are made.”

For more information, go to www.elyblues.com.