Music festivals in the Vancouver area have all the elements of adventure: beautiful scenery, interesting characters, and a killer soundtrack. No matter what your musical taste, summer in this city has a festival that will cater to your needs. Stock up on sunscreen and pencil these dates in your calendar.
Vancouver International Jazz Festival (June 21 – July 1)
BC's biggest music festival attracts half a million jazz fans each year. Choose from 40 venues across the city, 400 different shows, and internationally acclaimed artists like Herbie Hancock, Macy Gray, Peggy Lee Band, and many more.
Summer Live at Stanley Park (July 8 – 10)
Celebrate the city's 125th birthday with free performances by The New Pornographers, Neko Case, Mother Mother, Hey Ocean! and more. After you're danced out, take in some multimedia art exhibits or watch the Coast Salish canoe races in Coal Harbour. A free shuttle will run from Waterfront station daily from 11 AM – 11 PM.
Vancouver Folk Festival (July 19 – 21)
This three day festival has garnered quite the community following. Now in its 34th year, the folk festival continues to attract some world class folk musicians and talented artists who showcase their work at the artisan market in the rocking fields next to Jericho beach.
Burnaby Blues and Roots Festival (August 10th)
For one day in August, Deer Lake Park will boom with sounds from k.d. land, Blue Rodeo, ZZ Ward, and more soulful performers. Camp out on the grassy and scenic grounds from noon to 10 PM and take in some inspiring Can con. Expect a varied crowd, 3 stages of top knotch music and lots of fresh air.
Live at Squamish (August 8, 9 & 10)
If you're can swing a weekend off, this years' lineup will be well worth it. Band of Horses, Jurassic 5, Vampire Weekend and Queens of the Stone Age are a few of the names on the bill. The music is just part of the experience at Squamish. Camping in beautiful Squamish valley, the art installations and the open air bazaar makes for an incredible summer experience.
