In the Mighty Peace Region, we’re blessed with longer summer days than, well, most places. One of our favourite ways to enjoy them is surrounded scores of our fellow music lovers, a chilled drink in hand, while screaming our lungs out at (or, for the more conservative among us, tapping toes and singing along with) our favourite band on the outdoor stage before us. Does the idea of a weekend of music and dancing give you festival fever? Here are four amazing summer music festivals, and one guitar camp, that you’ll want to be sure not to miss.
Turn Back Time at the Old Time Country Music Festival
Cumming Lake Campground, Fairview
Folks who love country, gospel, and old-time music will not want to miss this weekend-long jamboree featuring bands from around northern Alberta and British Columbia. Feast on daily pancake breakfasts, enjoy a rotating roster of over two dozen acts, and enjoy the Saturday night dinner and Ukrainian dance presentation from the Fairview Ukrainian Veselka Dancers. Camp overnight and take refuge from uncharitable weather in the provided shelters during the day while still enjoying the fun.
Fun for the Family at the Many Islands Country Music Festival
Many Islands Campground
Country music, wagon rides, campfires, jam sessions, and an open mic characterize this lively family music festival held in one of our region’s loveliest campgrounds. Dance late into the night and enjoy midnight fireworks on Saturday. Stay in the campground on the banks of the Mighty Peace for a musical weekend to remember.
Magical Experiences at Peacefest’s Natural Amphitheatre
Peace River
More than a music festival, PeaceFest has it all—Saturday activities and entertainers for the family at Riverside Park, and two nights of music—one country, one alternative—in the stunningly beautiful natural amphitheatre of 12 Foot Davis Event Park. Big-name and local bands make the largest festival north of Grande Prairie an event not to miss!
Make Musical Memories at George Lake Music Festival
George Lake Recreational Area
This annual music festival hosts rock and country acts from around Alberta. They play the rural music festival hit list—pancake breakfasts, fresh corn on the cob, face painting, horseshoe tourneys, and portable concession stands. The best way to join in the fun? Come and camp for the weekend. Money earned goes toward supporting the George Lake Campground for all to enjoy.
Play the Classics at Manning Guitar Camp
Hotchkiss
This week-long music camp is for developing musicians in a wide variety of stringed instruments. Ukulele, mandolin, banjo, bass, and all types of guitar players of all skill levels make memories and music in classes and around the campfire. You can even learn to sing harmony. Take your “Kum Ba Yah” (or your “Flight of the Bumblebee”) to a whole new level this summer.
