Vancouver Island Music Fest doesn’t start until July 8th but early-bird discounted tickets are only available until April 1. This 3 day music extravaganza takes place at Vancouver Island’s Comox Valley Fairgrounds and is always amazing, wild and great fun. I have not missed Music Fest since 2001 for good reason. VIMF is one of North America’s finest music festivals highlighting great talent from all around the world. This year’s headliner is recent Academy Award winner Randy Newman— that’s right the guy who wrote such modern masterpieces as I Think Its Gonna Rain Today, Short People, and I Love L.A . He joins a line up that includes Jon Anderson (of Yes fame), The Night Train Music Club, Arrested Development, Rodney Crowell, Red Horse and the awesome Eliza Gilkyson! This year VIMF has introduced a special Thursday night concert event July 7 with 26-time Grammy Award winner Alison Krauss and Union Station! Weekend pass holders can pick up tickets for Thursday’s concert for $50. During the day there are 6 stages where musicians from different groups jam and offer workshops as well as individual performances. The day venues are small and intimate and allow us to get close up to the artists.
Academy Award winner Randy Newman
Music Fest is family oriented with lots of fun for the kids, including easy access to the river for swimming. There are games and a well supervised play area where kids can have a ball even if they aren’t yet very interested in the music. Shoppers will enjoy the many booths selling everything from 60’s throwback tie dye to custom made drums and jewelry. There is always great food and beverages, and a beer tent for those of us who like to imbibe.
Vancouver Island Music Fest is truly an event not to be missed, as are the wonderful BC Bed & Breakfasts in the BC B&B B&Bkeepers Guild waiting to welcome you to help you create lifelong memories. April is fast approaching, so get those discount passes now and book a great B&B too!