British Columbia launches a flurry of summer festivals and new performance venues

A series of community celebrations are slated across British Columbia as the summer season begins. Trail will host the fourth annual SMOKIEPALOOZA music festival on Sept. 11, featuring local bands and a tribute act to AC/DC, with free admission for children under 15. Kimberley is set to open a permanent outdoor stage at Centre 64 on June 5, highlighted by a jazz choir performance and local rock acts. Kelowna’s Event Centre unveils a renovated space with three rental rooms and a new Bloc Creative Campus for artists, showcased during a public party on May 16. Victoria’s Vic West Festival will draw over 2,000 attendees to Banfield Park on June 6 for free music, dance, food and family activities. In Surrey, the 5X Fest Blockparty at Civic Plaza on May 16 will celebrate Punjabi music and culture with live DJs, food trucks and a VIP area. These events underscore a regional push to expand cultural programming and provide new venues for live performances and community gatherings.