St. Joe's newest festival a success (31 photos)

While attendance at the Go North Music Festival fell short of the desired mark, event organizers were pleased overall with the inaugural St. Joseph Island celebration.

“Everyone has had a really fabulous time. The numbers are good, the weather has been fabulous, the vendors have been amazing, and the music has been outstanding,” said Sherie Gladu, administrative assistant for the Township of St. Joseph and member of the Arts and Culture Recreation Committee for Richards Landing.

Hosted at the former Cornfest site in Richards Landing, Go North featured a variety of food and refreshments, area artisan vendors, games and activities, and an eclectic mix of live music from Emily Rockarts, Frank Deresti and the Lake Effect, Rita Hosking with Sean Feder, Old Man Luedecke, Dylan Ireland, Union Duke, and The Elwins.

“Richards Landing used to have Cornfest – a concert and celebration of our agricultural roots – and it’s been a while since we’ve had such an event,” Gladu explained. “We wanted to have a folk festival where we could appreciate music and the beautiful surroundings, and bring a festival back to Richards Landing.”

From a spectator standpoint, the festival was very well organized with no obvious hiccups. Northern Superior suds were on tap, and the local food vendors had something for every taste, from actual pulled pork sliders from Low n’ Slow to vegan pulled ‘pork’ sandwiches – made from jackfruit – from Vibe Cafe.

“Based on the success this year, we’re looking towards hosting it again next year,” Gladu told us.