Asked what he's learned over the past ten years as artistic director of the Kingsville Music Festival, John Law will tell you it's a lot.
He and the executive director of the Kingsville Music Society, Michele Law, are always looking for fresh, new acts that will energize the crowds. Law admits operating the festival behind the scenes gets smoother each year.
This year's event returns to Mettawas Park in Kingsville, starting at 6 p.m. on Friday when the gates open.
"Usually, we change around quite a bit," he laughed. "We've been in a few different locations. We have found our home here in Mettawas Park. Last year was our trial run, and this year will look even better."
Admission on Saturday and Sunday is free up until 5 p.m. After that, festival goers will need to buy a ticket. Those are available online, along with a full schedule of performances and events. Those 16 and under can attend for free.
Law admits attendance was down last year. He thinks it was the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, but he believes free admission on those two days will boost the numbers.
He's excited about some of the acts this year.
"Almost local -- a couple of the guys in the band are from Windsor -- Elliott Brood," he said. "And then we have a 12-piece horn beast called My Son The Hurricane. They're just amazing."
Years ago, the festival was called the Kingsville Folk Music Festival, but when it started signing acts from different genres, the event needed a name change.
Law said you'll find many different artists performing.
"Not always the big headliner name. People often come away and say, 'Oh, that band I've never seen before; they were amazing.' People are coming here to discover new music," he said. "There's a lot of acts nobody's heard of, but they're all acts touring the world."
For those who are already musicians, Law suggested bringing your drums, ukeleles, and horns. There are workshops with professional artists.