Crack open a cold one and take in some live entertainment at this year’s Vermilion Fair beer gardens and grandstand.

Colourful, eclectic and creative, “Buffalo Twins” continues to attract attention.

Prairie-born singer-songwriter Laura Hastings is singing a new tune or two lately.

Sidney York has her hands full, but she’s not complaining. Following a summer of firsts last year – releasing her first full length album, first performance at Colonial Days and first Canadian tour – the folk artist hasn’t slowed down.

 “We see it as a milestone,” chuckled 54-40 co-founder Brad Merritt, referring to the band’s upcoming 30th anniversary. “And worthy of celebration.”

Art – in its most basic visual elements – will be on display soon.

 As young girls first learning their scales and entering music festivals, dreams of performing were not far away. And today those dreams are even closer for vocalist Beatriz Bonilla, pianist Nicole Lorenz and saxophonist Melissa Latos – three young women who are homeward bound and eager to share their talent with the community that fostered their love of music.

The arts are about to come alive in the Border City. Arts Without Borders kicks off tomorrow night and the community is cordially invited to take part in the many festivities running from June 9 to 13.