The Town of Norman's Cove-Long Cove
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Beach Festival 
The Beach Festival is a yearly event that young and old look forward to on the second weekend of August. It began in 1994 and was called Norman's Cove-Long Cove Days up to 2003 when it was rechristened the Norman's Cove-Long Cove Beach Festival. Historically, all persons 16 and over were required to purchase a button for $3-$5 before entering the grounds. These buttons - used as a weekend pass - helped pay for bands, sound systems, fireworks, weiners, charcoal, etc (any surplus goes into community/ organizational coffers). According to some residents, in 2005 the event pass did not include the Saturday dance. It reached a 'staggering' $15 advance ticket price or $20 last minute. However, most who attended liked the big headliners. The move was a savy and worked well to compete with the Brigus Blueberry Festival which falls on the same weekend. Many anticipate even bigger crowds for the next event. The town's population often bulges during August, as many people return on vacations home for the festival. Residents often joke that, 'oil production out west and general Canadian economic production must plummet' due to the festival's growing popularity. :) Joking aside, the community's hospitality and welcoming nature draws people from everywhere to enjoy the truly unique small town environment. The festival opens on Friday evening with a parade that leaves the old Norman's Cove Elementary School parking lot, meets the flotilla at Long Cove Pond and ceremoniously steams to Long Cove Beach. At the beach, the official welcomes and opening of the festival is done by local 'dignitaries'. This is followed by a wiener and marshmallow roast on the beach. Kid's love it! After dark, commercial fireworks light the sky over the beach. When the kids are tucked away, the beer and liquor tent is the place to be. Mingle with friends as you listen to music (both live and recorded). Perhaps, a short play put off by local actors will tickle your fancy, as you 'raise your tumbler' and toast. The official opening festivities end at 2:00am when the bar closes... but don't be surprised if you get invited to an after party or simply stick around to dance until dawn on the dance stage.
Organized events and activities include:
Saturday Night's Adult Dance with Live Music is hailed as 'the party to end all parties'. Rain or moonshine (not the illegal beverage!) friends, family and visitors amalgamate in what can only be called Newfoundland's foremost outdoor kitchen party! Multiple beverages will be consumed, a few good 'taps'on the dance stage and a good time is had by all. Sunday Morning you can watch the finals for the Dory Races or other events not completed on Saturday. If not, sleep in... but not too late or you'll miss the afternoon ecumenical church service on the beach. |
Originally created by Darryl Smith
Maintained by NFLDAdDenDum
Original Content by Jan Smith
