Interstellar Rodeo Says Goodbye

On Monday, December 2nd, news broke that one of the best music festivals on the prairies was coming to an end.

Interstellar Rodeo pushed the envelope of what a festival could be. Created by Six Shooter Records owners and artist managers Shauna de Cartier and Helen Brittonetween, from 2012 to 2019, Edmonton and Winnipeg were blessed with a festival that brought acts like Beck, Wilco, St. Vincent, Sharon Van Etten, Sheila E, Alabama Shakes, Margo Price, Courtney Barnett, Father John Misty, and Perfume Genius to town.

Interstellar Rodeo wasn’t just forward thinking with their bookings. Boasting fully licensed grounds, while remaining all ages, the event proved that responsible behaviour wasn’t a difficult achievement. With wine pairings to go with each main act, and local food trucks as vendors, the festival quickly became a favourite amongst music fans.

One can only speculate on the reason behind the festivals end, a thank you note was released on their website with no reason given. Perhaps ticket sales were waning or maybe funding dried up as Alberta continues to dive deeper into recession; or maybe the crew behind the event simply achieved what they had wanted to achieve and will move on to new projects.

Whatever the cause, Interstellar Rodeo will be missed.