By Michelle Neilson
Published: May 17, 2014
Squamish is set to becoming home to one of Western Canada’s largest water and wind festivals.
On July 25, 26 27 Squamish Wind Festival will showcases the community’s diverse array of wind and water sports, while also highlighting the arts.
In partnership with the Squamish Arts Council (SAC) and the Squamish Yacht Club, this free community celebration includes the 35th anniversary of the Squamish Annual Open Regatta (SOAR) while also giving locals are chance to learn hands on about the different clubs and businesses and recreation relating to our oceanfront.
The goal of the festival is to weave the arts into all elements so we can also showcase our local talent under the same wind and water theme.
As an example, our local Visuals arts society will be curating an art show in the downtown arts council building featuring new works of art by local artists. We have local buskers too offering a mobile stage throughout the downtown core.
The idea is to create a carnival feeling.
It all kicks off with a free concert in O’Siem Pavilion Park on Friday, July 25. A beer garden will be set up and various food trucks offer a slew of culinary delights. A kid’s craft zone will be set up and bike valet offered so that people can leave their cars behind.
On stage will be a host of local musicians, plus featuring Vancouver’s emerging band the Jaguars and Brazilian-style, funk jazz band The Boom Booms. The real bonus about this festival is that it’s free and there will be something for all ages to enjoy and explore.
Saturday, July 26, is filled with a sports gear swap in the park in morning, followed by a water and wind recreation expo. Paddleboard and kayaking clubs will fill the Mamquam Blind Channel as they give demonstrations.
The activities wrap up on Sunday with a ‘Big Air’ kiteboard competition at the Squamish Spit and outrigger canoe race put on by the Canadian Outrigger Association from Porteau Cove to Nexen Beach.
The competitors will be greeted at the beach with live music and a Squamish family kite flying day. There will also be a chance for people to try out a trainer kite. Everyone is invited to join in the fun, Neilson said.
Event organizers are looking for residents interested in helping out with the festival. For more information visit www.squamishwindfestival.com or go to Squamish Wind Festival on Facebook.
