A flash thunderstorm with pea-sized hail forced attendees to the 11th Centrefest to find shelter quick Saturday.
The storm was short-lived, but the enthusiasm at the downtown busker-festival persevered.
Just as the storm was rolling in performers such as the Kamikazee Fireflies, consisting of Casey Martin and Rob Williams, continued their act as best they could, juggling flaming batons that weren’t extinguished by the rain.
Down the street magician James Jordan was using his magic stick, he doesn’t like the term magic wand, to delight the crowd with his tricks.
Under a tent, weathering the storm, Heidi Hastings, Centrefest Festival Director, was undeterred by the weather, saying the show would go on.
“It was pretty fun seeing Doris the Tyrannosaurs, our 17-foot T-Rex, walking and hearing people go ‘wow,’ and ‘oh my goodness,’” said Hastings. “It has been a whole lot of fun and a lot of smiles.”
Hastings said they were anticipating some sort of severe weather, but were going to just wait it out and get back to the festivities.
“Traditionally we have anywhere between 20,000 and 30,000 people in our history,” said Hastings. “Having a rainout in the afternoon will keep them away for a little bit, but we’ll power right back up.”
On top of the performers at the east and west entrances to blocked off Ross Street, 48th and Little Gaetz Avenues, in between were numerous booths featuring the etch-a-sketch guy, various retail booths and face-painting for children.
At the north entrance on 49 Avenue were food trucks, while at the south entrance was a music stage.
“It has been a great turnout so far,” said Hastings. “We’re super happy with the setup, it couldn’t have run smoother getting people on site.”
The event was kicked off on Friday with a barbecue and showcase of some of the weekend’s performers. Hastings said the ATCO barbecue side had completely sold out of hamburgers, the most they’ve ever sold a the event.
“It was the best the best kickoff we’ve ever had,” said Hastings.
mcrawford@www.reddeeradvocate.com