Scott’s Cove Park on the Port aux Basques harbour waterfront. – file photo
By: Ryan King
PORT AUX BASQUES — With the weather warming up and the public health guidelines regarding COVID-19 relaxing as innoculation numbers rise steadily, people across the country are hoping to make the most of summer and get back to the activities they have always enjoyed. It’s no different for residents on the Southwest coast, who may be pleased to know that this summer will see the return of live entertainment at Scott’s Cove Park on the waterfront.
Running this year from the July 1st Canada Day celebrations until Friday, Sept. 3, the performances at Scott’s Cove Park will feature local musicians, bands, and storytellers and will run from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. throughout the week. The entertainment has always drawn a steady crowd of devoted local fans and passing tourists. With the pandemic easing, it’s hoped that will be the case once more.
Town Economic Development Strategist, Shauna Strickland, discussed the park’s plans to re-open via e-mail.
“Scott’s Cove Park is a place that brings the community together. It promotes traditional Newfoundland culture through music,” wrote Strickland.
Strickland has been inviting artists to apply through the use of social media, but admits that there currently hasn’t been much uptake in interest yet from performers. The town does have three bands confirmed, and the plan is to have Thursday nights designated to showcase a new band or performer. With the reopening of the province on July 1, Strickland explained that the Town is allowed to put the shows back on but it will definitely be done with plenty of forethought.
“There has to be physical distance. At this point we are exploring what is safe to do. While we want to offer music in the park, we need to ensure all guidelines are adhered to. We are exploring interest and looking at ways to bring the community together in a safe manner,” said Strickland.
While it has been challenging for the town to plan events as the levels of the public health guidelines keep changing, Strickland outlined some of the anticipated safeguards to keep the performances at the park both entertaining and safe.
“The vendors renting the kiosks will be responsible for ensuring all guidelines are followed. We will ensure the washrooms are cleaned twice daily and will adjust seating based on physical distance. A student was hired and will assist in creating a safe and welcoming environment for residents and tourists,” wrote Strickland.
Any performers who are interested are invited to contact Shauna Strickland at 709-695-5775.
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