Salmon Arm is set to come alive with the sounds of music as the Roots and Blues Festival kicks off from July 26th to 28th, 2024. This highly anticipated event promises an unforgettable experience with a stellar lineup of performers and a variety of activities for festival-goers.
Althea Mongerson, an organizer of the festival, shared her excitement about the upcoming event, highlighting some of the big names set to perform. "We have Amanda Marshall, Sarah McLachlan, 5 Alarm Funk, Asanabi, Begonia, Blue Moon Marquis, and a full lineup of incredible artists," she said. The festival spans three full days, starting Friday afternoon and continuing through the weekend.
For those planning to attend, there are plenty of accommodation options. "We still have some hotels, Airbnbs, and a 700-spot campground that's just a five-minute walk to the festival grounds," Althea explained. "We're about 75 percent sold out right now, so there's still time to book your spot."
Friday night's lineup includes Amanda Marshall, Tanika Charles, and Miko Marks, with performances spread across three main stages. The festival's proximity to downtown Salmon Arm makes it easy for attendees to explore the city. "You are right in the heart of Salmon Arm," Althea noted.
"Our fairgrounds are very close to downtown, and we have a shuttle that runs continuously from the festival grounds to the downtown core."
Salmon Arm offers more than just music. Althea encouraged visitors to take a few extra days to enjoy the area's natural beauty. "Our downtown is lovely, and we have nature walks, a bird sanctuary, and the lake for paddling. There's so much to do," she said.
For those unable to secure accommodation in Salmon Arm, nearby communities such as Sicamous, Sorrento, and Blind Bay offer additional options. "You could even come from Kelowna for a day trip; it's about an hour and a half drive," Althea suggested.
The festival features five stages, including the main stage, the CBC Blues stage, the Odlam Brown Shade stage, the Barn stage, and the Hook Place stage, which focuses on Indigenous performers and educators. "Hook Place is an interactive experience with performances, education, and storytelling by the Secwepemc Peoples," Althea explained.
Tickets for the festival are still available, with options for single-day passes or a full weekend pass. "Prices go up to full price on Monday, so now is the time to buy and save up to $50," Althea advised. Youth passes are also available at a discounted rate, and children under 13 can attend for free.
In addition to the musical performances, the festival grounds will host about 30 food trucks and a full artisan village. "There's more than just music; we have a variety of food vendors and artisans," Althea said.
For those driving to the festival, parking is available for $10 a day, with options for street parking and larger lots. The shuttle service provides a convenient way to get around, running continuously from 10 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.
Althea emphasized the importance of staying hydrated and taking care of oneself in the summer heat. "We don't want people getting sunstroke, so make sure to wear a hat and drink plenty of water," she advised.
The festival also includes free performances in the downtown core, with a big kickoff concert on Thursday night, July 25th. "We bring in a big stage, close downtown, and have a street party to start the festival," Althea said.
With such a diverse lineup and a range of activities, the Salmon Arm
Roots and Blues Festival promises to be a highlight of the summer. "People come for the artists they know and love, and for the ones they're about to discover," Althea concluded.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit rootsandblues.ca. Don’t miss out on this incredible event—get your tickets before prices go up on Monday morning.
