Block Heater to keep Calgary Folk Festival fans warm this winter

Mukluks will likely replace Birkenstocks as the footwear of choice at the Calgary folkfest's new winter music series, Block Heater.

That's because it's happening in the dead of winter Feb. 12 to 14.

"We thought it would be fun to take people indoors and warm up with some music," said Debbi Salmonsen, executive director of the Calgary Folk Music Festival.

Block Heater will take place at four Inglewood venues, all within a block of one another.

There are more than 20 local and international artists in the lineup, including Elliott Brood, Alejandro Escovedo, Tom Phillips and Catherine MacLellan.

"We have hopes, in the future, that if this first year is successful we'll move down the Ninth Ave. corridor. Perhaps to the new National Music Centre and other venues," said Salmonsen.

Tickets and wristbands for the three day concert at Festival Hall, the Inglewood Music Club, Lantern Church and the Ironwood Stage and Grill went on sale Friday. Prices range from $15 to $80.