Excitement building around 22nd Ridgway Chainsaw Carvers Rendezvous

RIDGWAY - The 22nd Ridgway Chainsaw Carvers Rendezvous will take place in Ridgway for another spring, and Liz Boni, who is one of the organizers of the event, talked about what to expect for this year.

“This year the Rendezvous will be held at the Ridgway Mills Campground at 260 West Main Street, and we’re very excited to have it at this new venue. It’s a wonderful opportunity in a large area that’s going to meet all that is needed to put on an event such as this.”

Boni added that they are working in conjunction with the Ridgway Borough and together they are hoping to lay the groundwork for future events there in Ridgway.

The work that goes behind this type of event is immense, and Boni is fortunate that it is used in ways to promote the town of Ridgway.

“With this being the 22nd Rendezvous, we hope people appreciate all that goes into itfrom the carvers who travel far and wide to attend, and to the public who supported it over the years as this art form grows, as it has become one of the most popular community art forms of our time. Ridgway is known worldwide for the Rendezvous and chainsaw carving.”

Boni explained that the popularity of the Rendezvous had exploded to a point where they had to put a cap on how many carvers could attend.

“What started as a backyard party has grown into one of the most prestigious carving events in the world.

At its peak, we had two-hundred thirty seven carvers attending. Logistically, it was difficult to provide for that many carvers, so we have scaled it back a little bit and now welcome seventy carvers to town along with musicians, craft vendors, and food vendors in a much more festive atmosphere.”

The musicians that perform at the Rendezvous either have roots or a link to the area and are familiar with it, which creates even a more special environment for the event.

Boni knows that an event such as this provides an opportunity for the area’s small businesses to thrive.

“Hopefully, like it has done in the past, will bring increased revenue to the town. People who come here to see the event always comment and observe the beauty of our town. They love to shop, eat, and just walk around.”

The wood carving community fosters a great environment, and that shows in their work when they come to Ridgway.

“The wood carving community is like a family, and they all know each other and support each other together to move the art form forward,” Boni said.

The Ridgway Chainsaw

Carvers Rendezvous is a tradition in Ridgway everyone can look forward to, so come out April 27th through the 30th to support these talented artists and the wonderful small businesses in our town.

If you want to learn more about the event or learn about new updates, you can visit the website at www.chainsawrendezvous.org or follow their Facebook page.