No doubt about it…Eaglewood is a hidden jewel among summer festivals and more folks would certainly attend if only they knew how remarkable it is.  The 2011 audience survey results provide some insight into what makes Eaglewood special. Following is an excerpt from a report submitted to the Town of Georgina in November 2011.

Summary – 2011 Festival: The three days of blue skies and sunshine contributed to an excellent audience turnout, with between 1,400 and 1,500 total attendance, up considerably from last year.  We attribute much of this increase to the large proportion of new, first time attendees (27.6%).  Despite a downturn in the economy and fewer grant funds from 2010, the festival broke even, meaning all the bills were paid. Our success is due to strong leadership, hard work and commitment by board members, effective marketing initiatives, good weather and keen attendees.

2011 Attendance: Ticket purchases were 22% higher than 2010 with a total audience turnout of approximately 1,200.  Adding to this the large number of volunteers (100), and the number of musical artists and their guests (130) and the vendors and their staff/helpers (50), we estimate overall attendance to be between 1,400 and 1,500 in total. This represents a substantial increase over last year (approx. 30%)
Survey Results: The 76 audience participants surveyed represented 203 total attendees or 2.67 people per party, an indication that many families and groups attended. Of the 76 respondents, 63 (31%) were Georgina residents.  140 (69%) of the 203 represented came from other locations; furthest home location was Vancouver.

- Only 1 (2 in party) answered “no”, that they would not attend again based on their experience so far.

- 9 parties (11.8%) said “maybe” when asked if they would attend again based on their experience so far.

- 66 parties (86.8%) said “yes” when asked if they would attend again based on their experience so far.

- The combined total indicates an overwhelming majority (98.7%) answering “yes” or “maybe” when asked if they would attend again, based on their experience so far.  This indicates a very high satisfaction rating and will hopefully translate into return visits next year.

Eaglewood has created a growing community of like-minded people of all ages, who love getting together on the fourth weekend of August to experience the Eaglewood Folk Festival on the beautiful grounds of the Eaglewood Resort and Nature Park. The reasons for attending are many and varied, but the common thread seems to be the “vibe” and “atmosphere” experienced during the festival – a communion and inclusiveness of ordinary people, regardless of their ability, sharing their love of live music.

Comments from some of the 2011 Survey Forms:
“Amazing!  Family friendly, great vibe, bringing everyone I know next year”

“Relaxing family festival & diverse talent”

“Love it! All aspects of it!”

“It has been a wonderful weekend! Great talent – Great vibe!”

“Great family atmosphere / great music”

“We love this festival”

“I like the camping/community aspects of the festival and the ‘Player’ aspects as well”

“Great music and atmosphere”

“Great music variety in performers, easy going people, natural setting & 24/7 music and camping”

“Low key, great talent, close to Toronto”

“Wonderful performers, great experiences and people!”

“Love the peaceful atmosphere and I appreciate all instruments and the ages that play them”

“I like the format & atmosphere”

“I’m a child of the 60’s and adore folk music!”

“Setting is beautiful, nice variety of music – can’t believe I’ve never been before!”

“It’s my local festival (and Georgina certainly is in need of a folk festival)”

“Love it!  Plan to attend entire weekend next year. Amazing atmosphere & performers”

We are looking forward to another fantastic festival in 2012.  Are you planning to attend?

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