By Andrea Arnold
The 17th annual Robson Valley Music Festival August 16-18, 2024 is only five weeks away. A number that both excites and scares organizer and founder Shara Gustafson.
“We have a lot to get done before opening day,” she said. “But I am excited to see the results.”
As in past years, the three day event has been scheduled full of a variety of musical groups and other entertainment geared to entertain the whole family.
Renowned Bollywood dancer Karima Essa will once again be hosting a kids workshop. The young attendees will also be treated to their own musical performances, comedy, Puppets in the Move and Mini Circus Company.
There will be music and art workshops being held for adults throughout the weekend.
The four performance stages will host a range of artists showcasing Afro Reggae, Roots Country, World Electronic, Swing, Metal, Bluegrass, Country, and Celtic.
The two headlining performers are traveling from New Zealand and Mexico.
Gustafson is excited to also feature Notorious Cree, traditional hoop and powwow dancer from Talll Cree First Nation in Northern Alberta.
Local artists that will be featured are Half Asian Amy the CODA, Ben Coyle, Dream Heavy Art, and John Crowley.
“Saeda Rose, our daughter, will be making her festival debut,” said Gustafson.
Camping on site is included in ticket purchases. The artisan village will showcase many local makers and the Country Girls Kitchen is joining the line up of food trucks.
Smoking is only permitted in designated areas, and alcohol will be available in the beer gardens.
The festival does not permit dogs other than service dogs.
Tickets can be purchased on the website https://www.rvmf.ca/#/. The site also contains a detailed schedule of events and artists information as well as camping information and location.
“Usually during the last week of July we see a sales spike,” said Gustafson.
Only weekend passes are available for sale. Sunday, visitors are welcome to attend for the day by donation, and seniors are free.
Organizers are still looking for volunteers for the weekend in a variety of roles. In exchange for 12 hours of service over the weekend, volunteers receive a t-shirt, weekend pass, free camping and one meal from the hospitality tent.
Although the preparation for the weekend can be stressful, Gustafson loves the family focused community that is built throughout the weekend.
“When it goes well, it’s the best feeling,” she said. “It is a gift to the community. People come to celebrate art, music and being together. It’s great to see so many young families. It’s got such a family vibe now.”
