Photo: courtesy
A celebration of local music and community
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Groovesfest, a vibrant celebration of local music and community spirit, is set to return on Aug. 17 from 2 to 9 p.m at Square Queen in Lennoxville. The festival, organized by Brad Reilly, a Lennoxville native and musician, aims to bring together local artists, businesses, and organizations for a day of entertainment and support.
Reilly explained the inspiration behind Groovesfest in a Aug. 1 interview. “The event is basically a music festival with the goal of promoting local artists, businesses, and different organizations,” he said. He noted the lack of major community events in Lennoxville during the summer, saying, “There’s Friendship Day and the Harvest Festival in the fall… there’s not a whole lot of big community events to get the community of Lennoxville together.”
This year’s Groovesfest will feature six bands, including well-known acts such as CMON FM, and upcoming songwriter Gordon Shea. John Geary from Bishop’s will also perform, alongside other local talents. Reilly, who will perform with his band, the Local Yokels, shared elaborated in his motivation for organizing the event: “I’m a musician. I’ve played music pretty much since high school… I’m just a musician trying to help out other musicians as well as other businesses in the Townships.”
In addition to the musical performances, Groovesfest will host a silent auction, a 50/50 draw, and a used record sale. The proceeds from these activities, along with general donations, will benefit Mental Health Estrie.
Local businesses have also rallied behind the event, contributing both sponsorships and products. Reilly highlighted some of the contributors. “The Manoir St. Francis… gave a couple hundred dollars. A [local] lawn mowing business was nice enough to donate some. Lavpro, which is a window washing company, and Topher Farms in Waterville will also have a kiosk there as well.”
Food and beverages will be available, with catering provided by local chef Billy Lidstone. Attendees are welcome to bring their own beverages, but Reilly emphasized, “It’s also a BYOB, so people can bring their own beverages of choice… but no glass bottles.”
Reilly, reflecting on last year’s event, mentioned, “It was a pretty good success considering it was raining the whole time.” This year, while he admitted to being “a little scared to look” at the weather forecast, there is a rain plan in place to ensure the festival goes smoothly regardless of the weather.
Groovesfest promises to be a day full of music, community, and support for a good cause. For those interested in attending, remember to mark Aug. 17 on your calendar and join the community in celebrating local talent and businesses.