The Blacktop Ball is rolling back to the sea-side this August.
“It’s never going to go away, it’s too much fun,” said Jon Landry of The Stanfeilds. “We’re developing leaps and bounds every year, and having a blast trying to outdo ourselves.”
What started as a private patio party in Ponds, Pictou County in 2009 has now turned into a mainstay in the summer season.
“The first year there were 25-30 people,” recalls Landry. “Probably triple that the year after and by year three there were hundreds and hundreds of people showing up.”
Apart from a diverse musical line-up Landry says that they’ve got a lot planned for this year’s celebration.
“People are like ‘oh yeah, rock and roll, beer and axes. What can go wrong?’” says Landry laughing. This year they’ve invited people from Halimac Axe Throwing to let everyone try their hand at something different.
“It’s an interesting sport, axe throwing. There’s a bullseye set up and these international rules, kind of like darts. You rack up points, and it’s really fun,” said Landry adding of course that this event will be supervised and led by the professionals.
And even though the event is only for those who are 19-years or older, there’s no rule against bringing your pet.
“The Dogs of Blacktop Ball Pageant is where we’ll basically give out prizes to the best dressed dog,” said Landry.
The Black Top Ball has also partnered with Nova Scotia Spirit Co. and Garrison Brewery which will both be serving from retail spaces set up at the event. The event is also BYOB, and runs August 9 and 10.
“It’s just going to be a lot of fun. The beach is there and it’s a great community vibe.”