Lac-Mgantic comes together for re-opening of beloved bar

Thousands of people gathered in Lac-Mgantic, Que.,last night for the reopening of Musi-Cafa bar and restaurant that was located at the centre of town before the July 6 catastrophe.

The popular local bar was incinerated in the train derailment and ensuing explosions. Many of the 47 people who died in the catastrophe were patrons or staff at Musi-Caf.

Friday was the first in aseries of free concertsbeing heldat the relocated bar, which is set up under a tent in a local parking lot.

Quebec singer-songwriter Fred Pellerin opened to a crowd of fans, many lighting candles near the stage in memory of the victims.

Resident Dawn Bramadat says Musi-Caf was a cultural centre for the community.

"It was a place, first of all, where musicians could goThey could go and be heard and try out their stuff," he said.

"So it's so incredible that all these wonderful, wonderful performers from around the province are coming and donating their time. It really touches all of us."