Big Sugar, a rock band formed in Ontario in the late 80’s, was announced as a replacement for Sebastian Bach at Rockin’ The Fields of Minnedosa this year. Earlier in the day, it was revealed that Sebastian Bach will not be playing Rockin The Fields in Minnedosa, MB on 8/4 “Due to last minute, unforeseen scheduling conflicts”. Notable singles from Big Sugar include Diggin a Hole, If I had My Way, All Over Now and Better Get used to it.

Get ready for a finger-lickin’, lip-smackin’ good time, Brandon's Ribfest returns to the Riverbank Discovery Centre for three days in August. The annual event is an opportunity for BBQ lovers to enjoy delicious ribs hot off the rack from award winning and professional circuit BBQ experts. In addition to the ribs an assortment of other tasty items can usually be found on the menu's including juicy chicken, delectable sausages, sweet and savory pulled pork, and a number of accompanying side dishes. Once again, the event will also feature a beer tent, live music and a kids zone. The first RibFest in Brandon was held at the Riverbank Discovery Centre in August of 2017. No word, as of yet, as to who the participating "ribbers" will be. The three day event is being presented by the Brandon Sunset Rotary and takes place August 11-13.  Admission is free. Hours are from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm Friday and Saturday, and 11:00 am to 7:00 pm on the Sunday.

The first ever Salamander Summer Music Festival in Brandon kicked off late this afternoon. The 3-day event is taking place at Rideau Park (305 Park Street) and features DJs, local bands, university artists, performance troupes and more! Among the artists scheduled to  appear include: House of Hex, DJ Dirt, DJ Red, Julianna Moore, Full Flannel Jacket, Vertigo/Matt Cory Band, Mitchell Makoons, Jan Ek, Attica Riots and more.  In addition to the live musical performances, a number of activities and attractions are also onsite including food trucks, a mocktail garden, and a vendor village. You still have time to catch the action tonight as Kilushan's closing set is scheduled to take place from 9:30-11pm. Saturday's lineup can be viewed here. Sunday's schedule here.

Following a very long absence, Oktoberfest returns to Shilo. This one day music, culinary and beer festival will take place at the Community Centre Annex (BLDG L-25) on Saturday, October 14. The doors open at 5:30, with the meal scheduled for 7pm and a live German band hitting the stage at 9pm. Tickets ($35ea) to the event go on sale August 1 and will be available at the following locations; all three messes, Mess Admin Office, RCA Museum, and the Carberry Legion. You will also be able to reserve tables for of ten or more by emailing shiloserviceclub@gmail.com.

Food Truck Warz is pleased to announce that Select Shows will once again be on-hand for this year’s event taking place at the Keystone Centre from September 15-17. "Select Shows has become an integral component of Food Truck Warz" said bdnmb.ca's Director of Business Operations Jody Sass. "Jim and Michele, along with their children, operate a clean and well maintained midway which certainly adds to the atmosphere each year." Select Shows has grown to become one of central Canada’s largest midways. They provide a great selection of rides and carnival games for adults, as well as children, ensuring that the whole family can enjoy their experience. A complete list of rides attending, and pricing, will be released closer to the event. For more information on Select Shows please visit their web site. The Facebook event page for Food Truck Warz 2023 can be found here.