PEI

Soupy Saturdays return to help local food bank, soup kitchen

Soupy Saturdays are back to once again help those who need it at Christmas.

New partnership formed with the Hop Yard

Pat Deighan says he has lots of local musicians ready to play music at Soupy Saturday's beginning December 3. (Angela Walker/CBC)

Soupy Saturdays are back to once again help those who need it at Christmas.

Pat Deighan of Back Alley Music will continue the tradition of serving food and having local musicians entertain while raising money for The Upper Room.

The event gives up-and-coming musicians some exposure but even more well-established artists approach Deighan for a spot on one of the dates.

Deighan told Angela Walker on CBC Mainstreet they are doing three dates this month, on Dec. 3, 10, and 17.

New partnership

While people have enjoyed tasty soups from Island chefs the past few years, there is a change for 2016.

"This year we are are teaming up with Hop Yard so it's a beer, vinyl and food bar that's opened up at 151 Kent Street. They are going to be supplying the soup the three Saturdays."

Dennis Ellsworth will be among the first group of musicians entertaining on Dec. 3 along with the Beck Sisters and others.

"We've got a good solid lineup on each Saturday," said Deighan.

New contest

The record store owner describes his shop as a "community hub," adding some days you never make a sale but you've talked to a lot of people.

"The shop's always been that way and this is just a fun community event to do."

Deighan said the hustle and bustle of the season gives people an excuse to stop in, enjoy a bowl of soup and donate to a good case.

To get people thinking about vinyl and music, Back Alley Music will be giving away a record player, an amp and a set of speakers.

Call Mainstreet at 1-800-680-1898 and tell them what the first record you ever bought was for your chance to win.

With files from Mainstreet