Basin festivals will bring people together to celebrate community, arts and culture this season including the Wapiti Music Festival in Fernie. Photo: Vince Mo.
People across the Columbia Basin will be gathering this summer to enjoy music, performance and creativity at a wide range of local arts and cultural festivals. These events are cherished traditions that bring people together and contribute to what makes Basin communities vibrant, welcoming and full of spirit.
To help ensure that residents can continue to enjoy these experiences, Basin Festival Grants are supporting 17 festivals across the region this season. Funded by Columbia Basin Trust and delivered by the West Kootenay Regional Arts Council (WKRAC), the program is helping arts presenters and community organizers deliver meaningful, inclusive celebrations throughout the summer.
“Summer festivals are something we all look forward to each year; what better way is there to celebrate our amazing communities than being part of an outdoor music or arts fest,” said Christine Nichol, Manager, Delivery of Benefits, Columbia Basin Trust. “Along with showcasing our rich and diverse arts and culture scene, these events are critical contributors to our local economies. By supporting the work of presenters, artists, non-profits and volunteers, we help strengthen the resilience and vibrancy of our communities.”
The program reflects the Trust’s commitment to helping communities remain vibrant and creative, particularly as the arts sector adapts to recent changes in available funding. This support helps ensure residents continue to have access to cultural experiences that build community connection and wellbeing.
Here are a few of the 17 festivals receiving support. To see the full list, click here.
Held each July on the grounds of the Edgewater Community Hall, the Steamboat Mountain Music Festival draws music lovers from across the Columbia Valley.
“Steamboat Mountain Music Festival has become a tradition for our little town, showcasing local and regional artists and building community spirit,” said Anne Jardine, Board Member, Steamboat Mountain Music Festival Society. “Year after year, local business sponsors and volunteers return to make this event a success. Festivals like this help deepen community connections and reveal the character of the people who live here. But funding remains a perennial challenge. We strive to keep admission affordable for local families, and support like this makes all the difference.”
Launched in 2017 by a group of local arts organizations, LUNA is a unique nighttime celebration of the arts that takes place in September.
“Luna gives residents a chance to come together and celebrate creativity and imagination,” said Robyn Goldsmith, Executive Director, Arts Revelstoke. “It’s a cornerstone of our community calendar and a source of pride for residents. We offer a free, outdoor festival—so we rely heavily on grants, sponsorships and public donations. Artist fees have risen in recent years, and this support helps ensure we can continue offering fair compensation while delivering an outstanding experience.” Photo: Christine Love Hewitt
Set in Fernie’s Annex Park, this August festival features multiple stages of independent music along the scenic banks of the Elk River.
“Festivals provide an opportunity for families and friends to share in a cultural experience and for Basin performers to showcase their talents,” said Kevin McIssac, Director, Wapiti Music Festival Society. “Wapiti is a music and culture gathering that draws people from across the Basin and beyond, and both our event costs and our audiences contribute to the local economy. Rising costs for artists, insurance, permits, and essential infrastructure—like tents, fencing and lighting—make it increasingly difficult for small festivals like ours. We’re working hard to keep Wapiti affordable for families.” Photo: Kyle Hamilton
