For many, one of the highlights of a Portage la Prairie summer is being under the sun and enjoying some free fries at the Portage Potato Festival.

In previous years, the event had artists like Doc Walker, George Canyon, the Incredibly Hip, Trooper, Whole Lotta Angus, Brennans Bounty, and Biivers Band.

Recently, the festival announced who will headline this year, and Cindy McDonald, Co-chair of the festival, says that they are going big this year for the 20th anniversary!  

"Our headliner for the Saturday night of the 2024 20th Anniversary Potato Fest is the Road Hammers." McDonald continues, "The Friday night headliner will be Hicktown."

The Portage Potato Festival happens annually the weekend after August long.

Usually, when such events happen, there are tickets to buy to get in. However, McDonald says this festival strives to keep the admission free.  

"There is no charge for anything at the Potato Festival unless you have a beverage or something to eat, but the concerts are free."

It is the 20th year, so event organizers hope to make it bigger and better than ever.

"We're hoping to get the car show back again next year, and we're hoping to do a couple of fundraisers in 2024, so please watch for that," continues  McDonald. "We cannot put on a free festival without money, and that's something we need for our 20th anniversary, especially because there are a lot of expenses to run a free festival, and people don't realize. We will also be pushing for sponsorships soon, so watch out for those letters."

She says that even though they have a well-rounded committee, they are always looking for more people to be involved; if you or someone you know wants to help, click here.

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