The party is stuck in Baie-Saint-Paul for the next few days. A moment awaited by many who have traveled hundreds of kilometers to find their favorite festival.
“3h, 4h to come here”, says a Montrealer who is passing through for the occasion.
“It brings together a lot of people of all kinds and all ages too. I have been coming with my family for years,” says a young woman.
“It’s literally one of the best weekends of the year,” said Baie-Saint-Paul Mayor Michael Pilote.
In the heart of the summer season, local economic players are excited to welcome the many colorful festival-goers. Traders are doing gold business.
“It represents a lot more work because the campground will be almost 100%,” says Chantal Thibeault, manager at Camping du Gouffre.
“Since the festival has existed here in the city center, this weekend has been indescribable for us,” says Donald Duchesne, owner of the Orange Bistro restaurant.
“I think that for Baie-Saint-Paul, both in terms of the economy and in terms of vitality, people are very happy to participate in the festival,” said Mayor Pilote.
The City is in Party mode! but a lot of logistics must be implemented by the authorities
“When I think of the Fire Department, people are living in the barracks as one might live in a city of greater importance. The Sûreté du Québec and the CTAQ have also added additional resources so we are well prepared to deal with any eventuality,” assures Mr. Pilote.
Charlevoisians also benefit from the event. Some are directly involved as volunteers. This is the case of this young Baie-Saint-Paulois.
“I’ve been here since the first Festif!. I was 6. So, it’s a way of getting involved and helping Clément and those who are organizing this event,” says Mathis Bouchard.
Unfortunately, the rain spoiled the party on Thursday evening which caused the cancellation of shows at the end of the evening. The sun was back today to dance with the thousands of visitors.
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