Another successful Cisco Ottawa Bluesfest has come and gone, leaving fans with their wrist bands and good memories. As in previous years, the event was staged at LeBreton Flats Park between July 3 and 13.

This year's event marks the fifteenth installment of the popular festival. Originally focused primarily on Blues, the event has worked to broaden its appeal by including a wide range of musical styles. Their efforts appear to have been fruitful: this year's event drew an estimated 300,000 people over the course of 11 days to see more than 220 musical acts that covered the gamut from Boz Skaggs and Canned Heat to Akon and Feist.

Other featured performers on this year's bill included James Taylor, Great Big Sea, Fergie, Brian Wilson, The Black Crows, Wyclef Jean, Plain White T's, Snoop Dogg, The Wailers, and Donna Summer.

"This year's 'fest will go down in the annals of Bluesfest history, in terms of audience enthusiasm and appreciation," says Bluesfest executive director Mark Monahan. When asked if it's possible to top Bluesfest '08, he replied, "the planning starts today – 364 days and counting."

www.ottawabluesfest.ca/en