The blues is coming to Lake Country. The first ever Winter Blues Fest is set for January 28 and will utilize the entire Lake Country Community Complex with a multi-stage set-up, including one in the foyer at George Elliot secondary, the main stage in Creekside Theatre and another location in the complex.

The four-hour event will feature three stages, five acts as well as a food and beer component.

“We’re going to set it up as a multi-stage venue where people can walk about, check out the artists and the different stages, sit and have supper,” said Ryan Donn, Creekside manager. “It’s about the vibe in the community and people getting together. It’s not meant to be massive acts. It’s about having good blues and good food.”

Along with Poppa Dawg, other confirmed acts for the event are Kath and the Tomkats, Brandon Schmor, Old Strauss Blues Revue as well as a fifth act as yet to be announced.

“I’m very much looking forward to it,” said Rick Halisheff, aka Poppa Dawg, a Lake Country resident. “It’s not often I get the gig in my hometown. It’s going to be cool to have this at Creekside. Ryan is working his butt off to get more music out here which is really encouraging. Music is part of our culture. It’s the one thing you can share with people.

Tickets include 3 stages, 5 band, and food and are available at www.creeksidetheatre.com or 250-766-9309.