Organizers have announced the lineup for this summer’s Arboretum Arts Festival.

Queer Polaris Prize-winner Owen Pallett is the featured performer. Arboretum founder Rolf Klausener says organizers are “excited and honoured” to have Pallett as the headliner.

Now in its second year, the festival will expand from a single-day celebration to a more focused two-day event. “This year the Polaroid has come a little bit sharper into focus, and we are starting to understand what facets of the city we are trying to bolster,” Klausener says.

The festival’s chef showcase will see chefs serving up their creations on a concert stage, rather than set up as vendors. “Chefs get a one-hour set like musicians,” Klausener says. “This year what we’ll do is have a small-portion set. Six chefs are being highlighted.”

Klausener says this year’s musical lineup is more eclectic than last year’s and includes more hip hop, experimental and electronic acts. He credits the help of Westfest founder, and current Xtra Ottawa cover girl, Elaina Martin with logistics.

“Elaina has been a big hero of mine in the city. When she started, she was one of the first independent multidisciplinary arts festivals with a large goal. She’s been a huge inspiration,” he says.

Additonal performers include Jim Bryson, Holy Fuck and Sarah Neufeld.

Visit the festival’s Facebook page for more info.

Arboretum Festival

Fri, Aug 16 and Sat, Aug 17