Smithing and wine combine

Photo: Contributed

The sounds of clanging metal will once again resonate through Lake Country during the second annual forge blacksmithing competition.

Sound of the Forge is returning to Blind Tiger Vineyards, 11014 Bond Rd., for a friendly rivalry of both beginner and seasoned blacksmiths who will come from across Western Canada and show off their talents in one of the oldest trades in history.

Blacksmiths will showcase their skills over an anvil and coal-burning fire at this unique venue.

The event takes place over two days, and competitors are given a theme to work with.

This year the theme is ‘space.'

At the end of the two days, competitors are judged on creativity, degree of difficulty and fineness.

“My husband, Adam Degenstein, is a blacksmith and the creator of this event. Patrick McIvor of Dancing Scot Forge, lives only 15 minutes away from us. Between the two of them, they have extensive experience and success competing around the world in creative blacksmithing and farriery,” said event coordinator Kelly MacIntosh. “We want to share this skill with the public, and what better place to do it than at Blind Tiger Vineyards? We’d love to even recruit some future blacksmiths to learn the trade and participate next year.”

The public is invited to watch the blacksmiths in action next to the tasting room at Blind Tiger Vineyards.

Competitors will be on-site from 10 a.m. until approximately 6 p.m. Saturday, July 27, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 28.

There will also be metal-art gallery with sculptures, tools, hooks and various items available for purchase.

A few local artisan vendors will also be on site with hand-made creations for sale.

There is no fee to watch the event, but donations to the artists are appreciated.