George Street Festival now 'probably the biggest tourist attraction in the province'

It's been an annual summer destination for Newfoundland and Labrador music lovers since 1984, and now organizers say it has likely eclipsed other attractions in the province in popularity.

The George Street Festival has become one of the province's premier outdoor events and this year is no exception with a solid lineup and the promise of decent weather.

Brenda O'Reilly, co-owner ofthe YellowBelly Brewery and Public Houseand O'Reilly'sIrish Newfoundland Pub, said organizers decidedlast year to add a seventh night, bringing the event to a full week of entertainment.

"I do know thatthat you can't get a hotel room right now, so that's fantastic," said O'Reilly, adding the festival is a boon for businessesalong and nearthe city's legendary George Street strip.

"The cabs are busy, the restaurants are busy," she said.

"It's probably the biggest tourist attraction we have in theprovince.It's a great lineup this year,it'svery solid, great entertainment and a good cross of locals."

O'Reilly said the festival attracts thousands of visitors, many of whom build their vacations around it.

"People look forward to it. Ifwe can get the weather like we have today, weather iseverythingwith an outdoor event," O'Reilly said.

"But it's iconic, the GeorgeStreet Festival's been going on for such a long time. We can see tens ofthousandsof people throughout the whole week."

Mick Davis of local band The Novakssaid the festival vibe is all aboutsummertime.

"Well it's all about theaudience, it's for them, and they're so excited. Andthat's what helps you put off a good show," Davis said.

"I was thinking aboutall the magic moments we've had, and it's funny, it's a street full of bars they're open every night of the week but still, it's different. It's the George Street Festival."

Click here for a complete list of this year's festival, which continues through Aug. 3.