Mitigating the harm of record breaking climate events Sustainability Magazine
Tag: Magazine
HRM committee considers ban on plastics at city events
Halifax’s Environment and Sustainability standing committee met Thursday, July 7 to discuss two motions. One about Floating Yellow Hearts in Little Albro Lake and one about making city green spaces less grass and more natural plants.
But before the committee debated those two motions they got a presentation from Natasha Tucker, the executive director of Mind Your Plastics. Her charity is dedicated to eliminating plastic pollution in Canada.
She laid out some stark facts: 90% of the plastic we put into recycling bins doesn’t get recycled. Every minute a dump truck full of plastic enters the oceans. It’s grim.
“We’re in a linear economy,” says Tucker. “Which is really focused on a take, make and dispose. So there’s a ton of resources that go into creating the products that we use, and then ultimately use for a very short period of time and dispose of.” She asked the committee to consider a motion that bans single-use or disposable items at municipal-run events because every city generates 20,000 tonnes of waste every festival/event season.
There is a hesitation by political leaders to do more than a plastic bag ban. “I was at a conference with many municipal leaders,” says Tucker. “Talking about plastic-free event policy or plastic pollution-free event policies and whatnot was like, ‘Well, we banned single use plastic bags so…’ I’m like, okay, but what’s next?”
For councillor Shawn Cleary, what’s next is a plan to put forward a motion to get a staff report on how HRM can legislate plastic-free events.
The committee also heard a motion from councillor Sam Austin to trial a pesticide in Little Albro Lake to get rid of the invasive Floating Yellow Hearts. This will require approval from the federal and provincial governments, so staff will come back to the committee with a plan when the pesticide use is approved by the other levels of government.
Finally, the city has been doing a pilot project on naturalizing green spaces. Naturalizing means putting native plants in instead of the boring monoculture grass that’s been common since the colonization of Canada. The pilot project went well, and the committee wants to expand it all over the city, to the tune of $150,000.
Events Marketing Manager – AnjunaBeats – IQ Magazine
Events Marketing Manager – AnjunaBeats IQ Magazine
Summer 2022 festivals and events in Nova Scotia and beyond
Indigenous Peoples Day X Grand Oasis
Right outside City Hall, the Grand Oasis Festival Series begins on June 21—both Indigenous Peoples Day and the official first day of summer. The day kicks off with opening speeches and a Mi’kmaw flag raising. The musical performances begin in the late afternoon, starting with openers Iron Tide, Boogát and Fawn Wood, ending with the main performer DJ Shub presenting War Club Live.
7pm Tue, Jun 21 | Halifax City Hall
Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo
Beginning in 1979 as a one time celebration of the International Gathering of the Clans outside of Scotland, the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo continues this summer once again over 40 years after its start. This show is renowned around the world and blends the historical and modern through wonderful pipes and drums, dancers, acrobats, military pomp and many more fun activites for the whole family.
Sat, Jun 25-Jul 30 | Scotiabank Centre
Harbourside Ribfest
Prepare yourself for sticky fingers and messy faces as the Harbourside Ribfest returns for the eighth year. With a new name and location, Alderney Landing, the festival will feature five unique rib trucks and local vendors. Don’t miss out on this satisfying opportunity. Your stomach and taste buds will thank you.
Thu, Jun 30-Jul 3 | Alderney Landing
Grand Oasis x Canada Day Weekend
Friday, July 1, there will be outdoor live performances at the Grand Oasis Festival from 7-10:30pm from Crown Land, Neon Dreams, DeeDee Austin, Drives the Common Man and Eastern Eagle. On July 2 there will be Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo Salute To Ukraine and a performance from the Ukrainian band Balaklava Blues.
Fri, Jul 1-2 | Halifax City Hall
Antigonish Highland Games
One hundred and sixty years after The Antigonish Highland Society was founded, the society still aims to uphold Scottish tradition at the Antigonish Highland Games. Help keep the culture and traditions alive this summer by attending the many events like piping and drumming, highland dancing, fiddle music and athletics, and the ancient Scottish Heavy Events.
Sat, Jul 2-10 | Antigonish
Lebanese Cedar Festival
Since 2007 the Lebanese Cedar Festival has been a dynamic and successful festival that focuses and appreciates Lebanese culture. The aim is to bridge the gap between Canadian and Lebanese cultures by providing a space and opportunity for people from both communities to commence and enjoy delicious Lebanese foods while listening to music, dancing and more.
Sun, Jul 3-5 | Clayton Park Drive
Granville Green
The Granville Green free outdoor concert series returns to Port Hawkesbury every Sunday this summer. There will be many excellent Canadian acts performing like Tyler Shaw, The Stanfields, Classified and more. After the two years we’ve all endured in the wake of COVID, the festival is dedicated to highlighting the importance of community, resilience and comradeship.
7pm Sun, Jul 3-24 | Granville Green
Peggy’s Cove Area Festival of the Arts
This non-profit celebration of the arts at Peggy’s Cove is a spectacular way to spend an afternoon by the water and to get in touch with your artistic side. There are two main events, the first is a three-day air painting event in the little village of Peggy’s Cove on July 8, 9 and 10. The second is a Studio Tour on July 15, 16 and 17, where more than 60 studio artists, galleries and art groups open their doors to have people meet and interact with artists that range from painters to wood and glass workers.
Wed, Jul 6-17 | Scotiabank Centre
Cavendish Beach Music Festival
The Cavendish Beach Music Festival is entwined in the roots of the country music family tree with 13 years experience providing a stage for country music performers to hone their talents. This year’s lineup includes Luke Combs, Darius Rucker, Dustin Lynch and The Cadillac Three and more. Dust off your cowboy hats and boots cause you don’t want to miss this chance to spend a fantastic weekend outside in the sun with friends, listening to some of the genre’s best artists.
Thu, Jul 7-9 | Cavendish Beach
A Final Folly Fest
This magical and free-spirited festival situated alongside the beautiful Wolastoq river, is the perfect camping and festival spot. All you need to bring to stay is your tent and camping gear as the festival provides free water and showers. The Folly Fest isn’t only music but includes markets, performance art, workshops, kid zones, Silent Discos, and much more. The headliners include big names such as G-Nome Projects, Zamani and Apollo Suns.
Fri, Jul 8-10 | Village of Gagetown
2022 Lobster Bash
Prepare to have full bellies and your cravings satisfied, as all your lobster dreams will come true at the annual Lobster Bash celebration. Along the western shore of the Annapolis Basin, lip-licking lobster rolls, lobster chowder, and steamed lobster will be served. There will be many family-friendly events, including lobster banding, lobster trap stacking and hauling, row boat races, and much more.
Fri, Jul 8-10 | Digby Waterfront
Under the Spire Music Festival
Enjoy a secular experience in the most sacred of spaces. Situated in a former church constructed for music in rural PEI is the summer-long music festival, Under The Spire. Returning for the 27th season, the festival previously known as the Indian River Festival, announces many performers such as Reeny Smith & The Sanctified Bros, Twin Flames, David Myles and Catherine MacLellan.
Fri, Jul 8-Sep 2 | Historic St Mary’s
Grand Oasis Reunion
At the Grand Oasis Festival on July 8, 2022, Alan Doyle the lead singer of the Canadian folk rock band Great Big Sea and the band Fortunate Ones will be performing live. On July 9th, there will be performances from Classified and Owen O Sound Lee.
Fri, Jul 8-9 | Halifax City Hall
Halifax Jazz Festival
Spend a couple days of your summer boogie-ing and jive-ing to some funky jazz music at the infamous Halifax Jazz Festival. A collection of renowned performers from all around the world, each with their own unique take on jazz, are brought to Halifax to perform. The lineup for this summer’s event consists of names such as Tank and The Bangas, Perfume Genius, Milly Johnson and The Weather Station.
Wed, Jul 13-17 | Halifax Waterfront
Halifax Pride Festival
Partake in the over 150 colourful and uplifting community and pride organized events for the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Celebrate the history, activism, and perseverance of the community at the many exciting and joyous events like the Pride Parade, Queer Music Fest, Comedy Night and much more. Put on your most colourful outfit and join in the vibrant celebration of this extraordinary community.
Thu, Jul 14-24 | Halifax Pride
Acoustic Maritime Music Festival
Get your groove on at the family-friendly four-day Acoustic Festival. Listen to some of Canada’s best artists like JP Cormier, Andrew Waite Band and The Divorcees all weekend long while enjoying good eats and drinks from Smokinstein Food Truck and School House Brewery. If you like to sing, there will also be an open mic session to show off your talent.
Thu, Jul 14-17 | Kempt Shore Ocean View Campground
East Hants Tide Fest
If you’re looking for something entertaining to do, look no further. After two years, The East Hants Tide Fest returns for a jam-packed weekend full of events for everyone. There will be events and tournaments such as the world’s largest washer toss tournament, youth ball hockey, local music, Atlantic Canada’s strongest san and woman, a community fair and many more exciting things.
Fri, Jul 15-16 | East Hants Sportsplex
Lunenburg Arts Fest
Instead of watching something live on tv, head to Lunenburg to watch live and in-person painters’ artistic expressions take tangible form on canvases. For 21 years, The Lunenburg Art Gallery Society has hosted this annual event, formerly known as Paint Sea On Site. During this art festival, participating artists will be scattered in and around the town of Lunenburg painting, providing the public with the opportunity to watch and engage with the artists at work.
10am-5pm Sat, Jul 16-17 | Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic Wharf
Halifax Summer Opera Festival
Listen to the sweet melody of the opera at The Halifax Summer Opera Festival this summer. This year the Halifax Summer Opera Festival presents four fully-staged productions of Glick’s Armide. The festival will also participate in Pride events, Opera Backwards, and performances at the Halifax Public Library.
Mon, Jul 18-Aug 14 | Alderney Landing
Festival of Dance Annapolis Royal
Hop, boogie and leap over to the Festival of Dance Annapolis Royal to watch contemporary dance, dance theatre, acrobatic movement, Indigenous dance and works from Canada’s best choreographers in rural Nova Scotia. The artistic director and award-winning Canadian choreographer Randy Glynn, brings his vision to life through the mesmerizing and flawless movements of the dancers.
Tue, Jul 19-23 | King’s Theatre
Saint John Contemporary Dance Festival
Watch as both professional and emerging choreographers from New Brunswick strut their exceptional dance moves on stage. This festival aims to provide an array of creative performances in contemporary dance for both audience entertainment and for dancers to hone and show off their skills.
Fri, Jul 22 | Halifax Public Gardens
Nova Multifest
Enter a cross-culture utopia and be mesmerized by the celebration of the rich culture and diversity of Nova Scotia at the Nova Multifest. This electric festival embodies Nova Scotia’s multiple cultures through music, art and delicacies local to each culture. Feast your eyes at the festival’s live shows and cave to the temptations of culinary delights, cold beers from a local brewery and one-of-a-kind gifts.
Fri, Jul 22-24 | Alderney Landing
Harmony Bazaar
Did you know that only a two-hour drive from Halifax sits a mile-long white sand beach and the Harmony Bazaar music festival? What could be better than live music and a beach. The Harmony Bazaar music festival stands to promote female artists and songs. This female-only festival consists of great female artists and music coupled with activities like youth stages, industry dinners, art galas, theatre performances and mentorships.
Fri, Jul 22-24 | Seacaps Memorial Park
Stan Rogers Folk Festival
Enter the world of traditional folk music and more at the 25th edition of the Stan Rogers Folk Festival. Gather with the extended community to hear a wide range of music that goes beyond folk music such as rock, funk, gospel, and singer-songwriter acoustics. Performers include artists such as Carolyn Dawn Johnson, George Canyon and more.
Fri, Jul 22-24 | Bluegrass and Old-Time Music Festival
Parrsboro International Plein Air Festival (PIPAF)
PIPAF selects artists from across North America to compete in painting the marvellous sea and landscapes of the Parrsboro Shore. The festival aims to rejuvenate the community and develop the areas cultural economy through artists and artisans. Its success has been chronicled in media across North America, reaching thousands of artists, art galleries and art collectors’ organizations across the continent.
Wed, Jun 22-26 | Parrsboro Band Hall
East Coast Kite Festival
Spend the day outside under the open sky scattered with colours and shapes at the East Coast Kite Festival. Whether you just wish to watch or wish to fly your own kite, this free family-friendly no alcohol event is a great way to spend an afternoon. There will be 50 different types of kites for purchase, food trucks and vendors, craft workshops, kite flying lessons and much more.
10am Sat, Jul 23-24 | Citadel Hill
Hantsport Music Festival
Following the closure of large industries and town amalgamations, local volunteers decided to accumulate and showcase their love for the town by creating the Hantsport Music Festival. The festival focuses on raising money for the community and bringing the best Atlantic Canadian artists like Pail Lamb and Laura Conner with Wreckhouse, The Usual Suspects, Mark Riley Project and many more to the stage.
12pm Sat, Jul 23 | Hantsport Music Fest
Halifax Buskers Festival
No matter what side of the bridge you reside on, you can now enjoy the festivities of the Halifax Busker Festival without having to cross over into Halifax or Dartmouth. The Dartmouth side will have amusement rides, international buskers and music, while the Halifax side will also include international busker performances but will have food and craft vendors. It’s the perfect family-friendly event that everyone will enjoy no matter which waterfront you choose to visit.
Wed, Jul 27-Aug 1 | Seacaps Memorial Park
The Island Fringe Festival
This weekend-long festival is committed to supporting and encouraging independent artists while providing a unique experience outside the conventional theatre and live performance boundaries. Despite being a small festival, it stands loud and proud, offering unconventional performances in unconventional spaces for a rare and uncommon experience, making this an unforgettable music festival you don’t want to miss.
Wed, Jul 27-31 | Various Locations
Natal Day X Grand Oasis
Check out the live outdoor performances from Ria Mae on July 29, and Haviah Mighty, Aquakulture and Mass Choir all on August 1, at the Grand Oasis Festival to celebrate Natal Day.
Fri, Jul 29-Aug 1 | Halifax City Hall
The Riverfront Jubilee
If you love to immerse yourself in the euphoric sounds of music, you’re in luck. The award-winning music festival, the Riverfront Jubilee, opens its stage for national and international acts. Their outdoor amphitheatre is the perfect place to let loose, enjoy the summer sun and listen to great tunes from artists such as Tom Cochrane, Serena Ryder, Glass Tiger, Reeny Smith and more.
Fri, Jul 29-31 | Various Locations
Area 506
Every year around the August long weekend holiday, the AREA 506 festival takes place on the waterfront in Saint John, New Brunswick. Area 506 consists of a shipping container village that showcases vendors’ goods, brands and culture groups, plus the music festival that this summer features artists such as the Arkells, The Glorious Sons, Mother Mother, Sloan and many more.
Fri, Jul 29-31 | AREA 506
Rock the Hub
The annual Rock the Hub event returns. Grab a rock and get rollin’ cause this festival will definitely meet all your rock’ n’ roll fantasies with performances from Monster Truck, Three Days Grace, The Glorious Sons and many others.
Fri, Jul 29-31 | Truro Civic Square
Nova Scotia Bluegrass & Old-Time Music Festival
Whether it’s your first or 49th time attending, Canada’s oldest continuously running Bluegrass Festival is bound to be a great time. This event is more than a music festival as not only can you enjoy great music and food, but you can also partake in their interactive workshops to hone and improve your musical talents. The performers this summer include artists and bands such as Ray Legere and Acoustic Horizon, Matt Lunn & Echo Mountain, The Stiff Family Band and more.
Fri, Jul 29 | Bluegrass and Old-Time Music Festival
Sappyfest
Channel your inner good vibes and peaceful nature for this year’s Sappyfest. The festival returns this year better than ever to bring great live music you know and love. No matter your M.O., you are bound to fit into one of the many different groups at the festival like musicians, artists, dancers, punks, hippies and poets!
Fri, Jul 29-31 | Sappyfest
Nova Scotia Folk Art Festival
Lunenburg’s Folk Art Festival is back for the 32nd time this summer. Spend Sunday afternoon at this fundraising initiative looking at the artworks created by over 50 Nova Scotia artists working with wood, pencil, paint, metal, fibre and other materials. Good luck returning home empty-handed after seeing all the amazing art pieces.
12pm Sun, Jul 31 | Lunenburg War Memorial Arena
Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival
Embrace your twinkle toes as you groove to the music in this charming town, listening to charming music. This family fun festival brings some of the best traditional and contemporary folk music artists to the stage from far and wide. Amidst the stunning seaside views Lunenburg has to offer and with the salt in the air and possibly in your hair, explore Nova Scotia’s longest-running folk music festival.
Thu, Aug 4-7 | Lunenburg War Memorial Arena
Halifax Seaport Cider & Beerfest
Those who have attended this event in the past know it always calls for cloudy with a chance of a hangover. All jokes aside, head over to the beer and cider event of the season and drink responsibly from a range of 300 craft beer, imports, seasonals and ciders from over 20 countries. Hopefully, it’s not cloudy but sunny, however, either way, this indoor event also has live music and delicious eats from Halifax favourites like East of Grafton and The Cake Lady!
Thu, Aug 4-6 | Halifax Seaport
Future Forest
If the idea of getting out of the city and being one with nature tickles your fancy, then the Future Forest Festival is the place for you. This EDM music festival is built from the natural resources provided by the forest its located. In the middle of the wilderness, far away from any houses or city lights, perfect for stargazing, there will be three stages where more than 140 musicians will perform. The festival includes not only music but world class performance arts, artisan and food vendors, a yoga village, learning workshops, art installations, family camping and more.
Fri, Aug 5-8 | Future Forest Festival
East Coast Classics x Grand Oasis
Spend your Saturday evening at the Grand Oasis Festival listening to live outdoor performances and celebrating East Coast artists Mo Kenney and Joel Plaskett.
7pm Fri, Aug 5-6 | Halifax City Hall
Country Rocks the Hub
Saddle up and get ready for this year’s annual Country Rocks the Hub music festival. This year Alexander Keith brings artists and bands such as Terri Clark, The Reklaws, Brett Kissel, Lonestar, and Tyler Joe Miller to the stage to rock your socks off.
Fri, Aug 5-7 | Truro Civic Square
19th Annual Northern Lights Lantren Festival
Light up your day literally and figuratively by attending the Northern Lights Lantern Festival. This four-hour long festival will give you the chance to celebrate the dynamic and vibrant North End. There will also be activities like bouncy castles, lantern making, carnival games, live music, and free community BBQs. The night will finish with fireworks to light up your night just a bit more.
5:30-9:30pm Sat, Aug 6 | Halifax north end
Chester Race Week
Drift on over to Chester, Nova Scotia for Canada’s largest annual Keel Boat Regatta. Not only will you be entertained watching the sailors set sail and race around the stunning Mahone Bay, but there will also be lots of on-land activities to enjoy over the course of the week. The on-land schedule consists of days sponsored by Keith Brewery and Blue Lobster, a visit from the Bluenose, great food and live music on the deck from artists such as Tyler Key and Scott Harnish and the local band Dark and Stormy.
8:30am-11pm Thu, Aug 11-13 | Chester
Outdoor Runway Weekend X Grand Oasis
Channel your inner glamours side and spend the evening of August 12, enjoying the one-night-only outdoor fashion show, THIS IS US! This outdoor runway is created by SOLI Productions and includes an After Party with DJ BAMBII. 20+ countries and designers will be represented during the show. DJ BAMBII returns to perform again on August 13.
Fri, Aug 12-13 | Halifax City Hall
India Fest 2022
Join the hundreds of other visitors immersing themselves in the true colours of Indian culture at this three-day celebration. If you can attend, you will no doubt enjoy the incredible experience being offered to engage yourself in a variety of Indian foods, dances, music, clothing, art & craft, jewellery and henna.
11am-8pm Fri, Aug 12-14 | Halifax Forum
White Rabbit Arts Festival
The free all-ages celebration of comics and cartooning returns to Dartmouth this summer. Take inspiration from the dozens of artists, writers and vendors that you’ll meet while they show off and sell their work.
11 Mon, Aug 15 | Alderney Landing
The Halifax County Exhibition
Make sure you and your family get the chance to enjoy all the fun the Halifax County Exhibition has to offer this summer. The community-run exhibition has been running since 1884 and offers an old-fashion county fair feel. The exhibition offers four days of livestock displays and competitions, games and activities for children, yummy treats, local entertainment and loads more.
Wed, Aug 17-20 | Halifax County Exhibition Grounds
Vibrancy Festival X Grand Oasis
Head to City Hall to hear live outdoor performances. On August 19, see Cloverdale, B2B and Famba perform and on August 20, see American singer, record producer, and DJ, Green Velvet. August 27, and August 28, performers at still TBD.
Fri, Aug 19-20 | Halifax City Hall
Nova Scotia Summer Fest
It’s not a true Nova Scotian summer without a celebration of its music and culture. Therefore, find the heart of summer at the Nova Scotia Summer Fest. Not only will there be great performances from artists such as Walk Off The Earth, Myles Goodwyn and more, but there will also be some of the province’s finest seafood, wines, micro brews and art. You could say this festival has everything you could ever need.
3pm-11pm Fri, Aug 19-20 | Columbus Field
Riverfest
Thanks to Country 100.7 announcer Jonathan Crouse and musician Jason McCorrisstion the Riverfest festival was born. Their dual vision has brought great indie music to the south shore and continues to do so this summer. Join the party and rock out to artists and bands such as Heymaker, The Shifters, Chesterdoom, Diamond City and many more.
6pm-1:30am Fri, Aug 19-20 | Columbus Field
Clam Harbour Beach Sandcastle Competition
Dust off your hibernating beach toys from the garage, grab your sunhat and head over to the Eastern shores. After a two-year hiatus due to the Provincial Government’s State of Emergency, the 42nd Clam Harbour Beach Sandcastle Competition returns this summer. Whether you watch or partake in the competition, this is a great way to spend a Sunday with friends and family at the beach.
9am Sun, Aug 21 | Clam Harbour Beach Provincial Park
The Wellness Escape Festival
Start or continue your wellness journey this summer and discover your inner peace at this festival. Connect to your mind and body through mindful movements and mediation classes, holistic health workshops, and mindful practices. Unearth your calmest and healthiest self by spending your day doing yoga, pilates, meditation, mindfulness, breathwork, bath salts making, mindset training and a sound healing workshop. Finish your day with a spectacular outdoor 3-course dinner amidst the vines under the Nordic Kata Tipi tent.
10am-6pm Sat, Aug 27 | Avondale Sky Winery
Halifax Urban Folk Festival
This festival is all about collaboration and bringing Nova Scotia’s amazing artists together in Halifax. You too can collaborate by joining other Nova Scotians in the great decision to attend the festival and see the outstanding performances from artists such as Postdata, Christina Marin, Zamani, Reeny Smith and Matt Mays.
Mon, Aug 29-Sep 5 | Truro Civic Square
Frosh Returns + Halifax Urban Folk Fest Main Event
The Canadian singer, songwriter and rapper BBNO$, with 1.1 million Instagram followers and 800 million streams on Spotify, is coming to the Grand Oasis festival. BBNO$ is well known for this collaboration with Young Gravy in 2019 to create the hit song “Lalala”. The performer for September 3rd is TBD.
Fri, Sep 2-3 | Halifax City Hall
Music Nova Scotia Takeover X Grand Oasis
Performers for the Grand Oasis festival September 9, 2022, and September 10, 2022, are still to be announced.
Fri, Sep 9-10 | Halifax City Hall
Dear Summer x Grand Oasis
Head to City Hall for an electric night of music on September 16, as Grand Oasis Festival presents performers NOBRO, Like a Motorcycle and Hello Delaware. NOBRO is an all-female rock band dedicated to rockin’ it out. Like a Motorcycle is a local punk rock band and Hello Delaware is a glam punk pop band. The performers on September 17, is alternative, indie and rock artists Jon Samuel and DJ Douvet.
Fri, Sep 16-17 | Halifax City Hall
Nova Scotia Craft Beer Festival
Head over to the Salt Yard on the Halifax waterfront to socialize and sample over 40 craft beers. This event showcases and celebrates craft beer made throughout the province. Tickets include a tasting glass, sample beer tickets for individual breweries and an opportunity to meet people in the Nova Scotia brewing community. Note: Age identification is required at this 19+ event.
6pm-12am Fri, Sep 16-17 | Salt Yard
Will Alabama sell alcohol at sports events? What AD Greg Byrne said – Tuscaloosa Magazine
Will Alabama sell alcohol at sports events? What AD Greg Byrne said Tuscaloosa Magazine
VCBW Behind the Scenes: Evolving BC’s Biggest Beer Event – What’s Brewing Magazine
BC’s Most Popular Beer Event Returns to PNE Fairgrounds July 9th & 10th
It was back in 2010 that Vancouver Craft Beer Week first took the Lower Mainland beer community by storm. As the years passed, the crown jewel of the Week solidified as VCBW Festival, which grew to become one of the larger beer events in Canada.
After a two year hiatus, the Fest if back! This year’s event will be held on Saturday, July 9th & Sunday July 10th, 2022.
What’s new? For one thing, after ten years of producing Vancouver Craft Beer Week, the original festival organizers have stepped back and a new event production company is marking its debut VCBW Fest.
Also, there are a number of ways that the event planned for 2022 has grown over the past year of planning. We connected with new Festival organizer Adam Bloch—veteran producer of Hopscotch Festival since 2006—for a peek at what it was like to manage VCBW’s transition, and what’s coming in July. Spoiler: more than we thought.
Q & A WITH ADAM BLOCH OF VANCOUVER CRAFT BEER WEEK AND FEASTER
Q: After two missed years, this year’s event will be the 11th annual VCBW Festival. How are preparations coming along; any major snags so far, and are you getting much sleep?
As you know, during the pandemic VCBW changed management and we, the new team, are producing this event for the first time.
Preparation is coming along better than we ever expected. When doing anything of this nature for the first time, everything is a learning experience. Learning about the culture of the community, the history of this event, what people loved, what they didn’t and so on has been a trip. But now, 12+ months into planning, the Festival is quickly approaching and we have put together such an incredible event.
There have been no major snags; just an immense number of hurdles and challenges, but that was expected. What we do as producers is literally making sure the train follows the tracks, and when challenges arise along the journey, we figure out solutions. As for sleep, I think I got some in, like, April?
Q: You’ve been working directly with management partner Dax Droski of Parade Agency for five years now. Was VCBW ultimately the catalyst for formalizing your new umbrella events company, FEASTER?
FEASTER is an amalgamation of so many trusted events within BC. We specialize in liquid-to-lips, which is the way beverage companies market their products—by having people sample and learn about them.
Our events (Hopscotch Festival, The Cup, Harvest Haus, VCBW and several others) have all been around for so many years (Hopscotch turns 27 this year!), and FEASTER was created to have a trusted brand that overlooks all of them. FEASTER also produces other projects that are not events, but based in the same space, such as Beer Box.
Q: The craft beer community learned about the change in VCBW management back in June 2021, at which point there seemed to be no end to the pandemic in sight. How did it feel to invest in an event while there was no guarantee it would be able to take place?
If I were to explain the emotional rollercoaster of being an event producer during the pandemic, it wouldn’t be too enjoyable of an interview to read. As it was extremely difficult to be in the event game during the pandemic, some events ceased to exist and some companies went out of business.
A year into the pandemic, there was hope we’d be able to bring events back to the people. It was slim, but it was there. We knew that if we didn’t plan for the events but were then permitted to produce them, there’d be no chance to catch up, as each event takes over six months to plan. So, we worked on events for the entire second year of the pandemic, with nothing to show for it.It was basically being on a hamster wheel with endless amounts of work, and no ability to complete it. I don’t wish that on anyone.
Q: Given that you have an events background, there might naturally be an impulse to rework your first VCBW a bit in the vein of what you’ve previously done. How much have you tried to retain the essence of prior VCBW Festivals?
In the case of VCBW, the former management team did a fantastic job but they were ready to move on to other things. We had known them since before VCBW started, and had watched them grow it during the 2010s, which they did so well. When they approached us to take it over, we were excited to do so, but needed to decide what we could bring to this event to make it even better than it was.
And after several weeks of strategizing and brainstorming, we figured we would continue producing VCBW as the amazing craft beer festival that it has been, but hybrid it into a small music festival as well. By doing so, we felt it would open its gates to such a larger demographic of beer drinkers, as now it would no longer be just for the beer–obsessed. By doing so, we took the first step to reaching our goal of turning VCBW into one of the largest craft beer festivals in the world, and making it an anchor event of the Vancouver landscape.
Q: Fortunately at this point it looks like the waves of COVID have subsided. Have you started to breathe easier about that aspect yet?
I think we are all permanently scarred by the rise and fall and rise and fall and rise and fall of COVID. Thankfully numbers are low now and have stayed low. We are not too worried about it with respect to VCBW as it is held outside during summertime, with lots of space. At the end of the day, safety is most important to everything we (as people) do and must thus take precedence.
Q: You folks recently mentioned that regular two-day passes had sold out, but you then decided to re-release a limited amount of them for sale keeping the lower tier price of $49. That seems like a great deal while it lasts. Given that this is only $9 more than a Saturday standalone ticket was selling for, is this economically feasible for you?
Nope. Everything we are doing (low prices, ridiculous stupid low priced 2-day passes) is an investment into the future of this event. We are aiming for 15,000 attendees (and on track to get there) and have kept the prices low to incentivize people to come check out this event. We know that if everyone takes a chance on us, they will be hooked. Everything about this event—the breweries, the bands, the food, the production—is on an entirely new level this year.
At the time of writing, we are about to sell out of the 2-day VIP tickets so if you are looking for those, I would jump on it now as they won’t be re-released.
Q: We notice that Sunday tickets are offered at a lower price than Saturday. Another good deal. Is that helping balance out the sales for the two days?
Tickets are released in tiers for most of our events. The earlier you purchase, the better price you are going to receive. Sunday tickets are selling exceptionally well, but Saturday will forever be the best day of the week for ticket sales.
Q: Under the previous management, VCBW had spawned some satellite events, not only during the original Week but during other times of the year. Did any of that come up during planning?
Because of how big of an endeavour we are taking on with VCBW, we made the decision to hold off on Satellite Events and focus all our energy into making sure the large weekend is at 110%.
Q: This year, VCBW will be leveraging technology to go cashless. Which events have you used the RFID wristbands at before? What are the bugs that you had to work out?
Ask me the same question after VCBW and I will have an answer for you, LOL! This is our first time doing it, but we have worked endlessly with the company that is behind it. They will have a massive team onsite making sure it is running perfectly. We are SO excited to implement this into VCBW this year.
Q: At this point, can you still use more volunteers for VCBW Fest?
100%. Anyone who wants to volunteer should visit: volunteer.vcbw.ca
Q: What are you personally looking forward to most at this year’s event? Do you have a favourite band you’re looking forward to hearing?
I could give you a list of 100 things. I’ll give you the top 5.
1) The event itself: SOOOOO many people have worked SOOOO hard to get this show off the ground. I can’t wait to see all of our work be put together into one seamless work of art.
2) Half Moon Run (band): HMR has such an incredible sound and vibe and they are going to crush it this year at VCBW. Really excited to see them for the first time.
3) The Beer + Cider: The quality of the beer is amazing this year. Working with all of the breweries has been so enjoyable, and finding the best ones to bring into the show to make it the best experience for attendees has been great. I can’t wait to taste some of them (once the show is over).
4) The People: I can’t wait to people-watch.
5) The Food: The food this year is INSANE. Between the chef pop-ups and the food trucks, I am personally going to arrive starving so I can try as many vendors as possible. That said, I STRONGLY urge guests to eat before they drink to avoid intoxication. (Although our event is based around beer, intoxication isn’t allowed!)
Speaking of vendors: we couldn’t have put this event on with such affordable ticket prices without the help of our sponsors. I would really like to thank Go RVing for coming on as our Presenting Sponsor. Also, Stanley Park Brewing stepped up in a big way to sponsor the Sunsetter Stage.
To our other sponsors like Miles End Motors, Yeti, UBC Properties and Castillo Cheese… thank you. And lastly, I wanted to thank the BC Government for their Tourism and Recovery Grant. It has been a massive help for us to bring back this event in a whole new way, and with such a low cost to the attendees. Honestly, without all of the above, ticket prices would be $100 or more!
VCBW Craft Beer & Music Festival
Saturday, July 9th & Sunday July 10th, 2022
VIP Admission: 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm
General Admission: 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
PNE Fairgrounds
2901 E Hastings St
Vancouver, BC V5K 5J1
vancouvercraftbeerweek.com | vcbw.ca
BUY TICKETS »
150+ Craft Beer And Ciders
VCBW Craft Beer & Music Festival Announces New Features at Returning Summer Event
VCBW Craft Beer & Music Festival returns to Vancouver, July 9–10, 2022
The Events Team Of The Future: What The C-Suite Needs To Know – CEOWORLD magazine
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated transformation within the event space. While disruptive, this change isn’t necessarily negative. In fact, the transition from in-person to virtual and hybrid events has increased the reach, impact, and measurability of your events. This increase, however, requires a larger support team. By adding a few key roles and leveling up your expertise, your event teams will be better prepared to compete in a rapidly changing industry.
Today’s event teams need skills beyond the traditional assets required to host a successful in-person event. Virtual event professionals have the expertise and resources to help teams bridge the gap between the two spaces. Incorporating tech-focused team members into event teams facilitates the seamless execution of virtual events.
Your events team’s structure may look different depending on the industry and scale of your organization. In our book, Event Success: Maximizing The Business Impact of In-Person, Virtual, and Hybrid Experiences, co-written with my Bizzabo co-founders Eran Ben-Shushan and Boaz Katz, we discuss several key roles leadership teams should fill to create successful event experiences, based on whether the formats are virtual, in-person or hybrid.
The Virtual Team
As the newest aspect of event production, virtual content requires positions unique to its format. With its parallels to traditional live broadcasts, virtual production roles could include people with skills and expertise similar to those working in film and television. We believe the following roles are essential positions within the virtual events team.
Event Technologist
The event technologist ensures your team has the right tech for your event. They help anticipate and solve the “technical difficulties” that can occur during a virtual event. Like in-person teams, virtual teams have contingency plans developed in collaboration with an event technologist to address issues that might arise during production.
Executive Producer
Your executive producer will need to have deep knowledge and experience orchestrating live productions. Delivering the most engaging, immersive content will require collaboration and coordination with a variety of team members.
Camera & Sound Operators
A webcam and built-in computer microphone won’t suffice if you want an engaged audience. Enter your camera and sound operators, bringing strong audio and visual (AV) tools to create a more immersive attendee experience for your virtual audiences. Their inclusion improves the overall audience experience and creates a higher-quality database of content for post-event use.
The In-Person Team
Most event teams include professionals who have spent most of their careers producing live events. While their expertise remains invaluable, it’s essential for in-person teams to be able to pivot when needed. As the events space evolves to include virtual and in-person participants, you’ll need a team that can elevate your in-person event from a standalone experience to one that successfully caters to both the individuals behind the screen and in the venue.
Moderator
In the past, moderators introduced speakers, interacted with audiences, and controlled the flow of the on-stage programming. Now, however, in an evolving events space, moderators are not only moving the conversation along but also maintaining the virtual audience’s attention. This role manifests in many ways. Moderators pose questions to virtual attendees, inviting them to respond in the chat. They encourage virtual attendees to come on camera to interact with speakers.
Onsite Technician
Onsite technicians serve a similar role as event technologists but for onsite venue issues. They assist with the venue’s Wi-Fi, microphones, slide decks, and other technical elements required to deliver an immersive, in-person experience.
The Hybrid Events Team
While hybrid events benefit from having separate in-person and virtual teams, a hybrid events team helps bridge the gap between the two. In addition to communicating with both the in-person and virtual teams, these individuals collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure events meet expectations and overall business needs.
Audience Development/Event Marketer
Since the industry’s inception, marketers have consulted in the events space, publicizing events and driving registrations. In this newly evolved events space, leadership may want to hire marketers who specialize in events. For example, companies like Forbes, Bloomberg, HubSpot, and Salesforce have created designated marketing directors, audience development managers, and other roles focused solely on event marketing and promotion.
Event Experience Manager
And now, the most critical role for a hybrid event space: the Event Experience Manager. These specialists manage, audit, and own responsibility for implementing robust attendee and stakeholder experiences. The Event Experience Managers ensure both in-person attendees and virtual participants have distinct but cohesive experiences.
Adding these key roles and areas of expertise to your event teams will equip your organization to meet challenges and seize opportunities within a more competitive and ever-evolving event landscape.
Written by Alon Alroy.
Have you read?
Perfectly Imperfect: Embracing your Lopsidedness by Chris De Santis.
5 Foundational Elements of an Inclusion System by Amri Johnson.
Corporations and Abortion Rights: Navigating the Storm by Dr. Joe Zammit-Lucia.
America Is Flirting With World War III. History Reveals a Better Approach by Christopher D. Kolenda, Ph.D.
Track Latest News Live on CEOWORLD magazine and get news updates from the United States and around the world.
The views expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily those of the CEOWORLD magazine.
Follow CEOWORLD magazine headlines on Google News, Twitter, and Facebook. For media queries, please contact:
info@ceoworld.biz
Jane’s Walk returns to Halifax with 17 events to learn about the city
Jane Jacobs’ fight to save Greenwich Village in the ‘50s and ‘60s, and her later fight to stop Toronto’s proposed Spadina Expressway, inspired a generation of urbanists. A woman who made waves in the male-dominated field of urban planning, Jacobs sought to protect city blocks from being turned into high-rises, to keep mom ‘n’ pop shops from being razed to build highways and to keep urban communities affordable. She “wrote eloquently about sidewalks, parks, retail design and self-organization,” as New York’s Center for the Living City puts it, and “encouraged people to familiarize themselves with the places where they live, work, and play.”
After the longtime writer and activist’s death in 2006, Toronto created Jane Jacobs Day in her name, and across the country a series of walks—Jane’s Walks—began in her honour. The Halifax version of Jane’s Walk was put on hold for two years due to the pandemic, but the event returns for 2022: It happens this weekend, Saturday and Sunday May 7 and 8.
“The walks help bring people together, creating strong and resourceful communities, cultivating belonging and encouraging civic leadership,” the Jane’s Walk Halifax website says. The event is actually 17 different free, volunteer-led walks happening around the city, each focused on a different topic or area of HRM.
Saturday features 11 walks. At Birch Cove Saturday morning, for example, a Learn To Bird walk will teach the basics of spotting and recognizing local wildlife. In Dartmouth, local historian David Jones will give a history lesson during a walk around Lake Banook.
Journalist Lezlie Lowe—famed for her writing at The Coast and other outlets—will lead a walk around Needham Park, giving details on local women’s war efforts from her new book The Volunteers. And former MLA Lisa Roberts will lead a walk through the north end while talking about affordable housing.
The event continues with six walks Sunday, including author and illustrator Emma Fitzgerald leading a sketching “walk” at Peace and Friendship Park, with a focus on capturing accessible transportation. Another art-focused walk, this one led by Argyle Fine Art, will take you on a tour of public installations and murals around downtown Halifax.
The downtown walk titled Gay Old Halifax will explore the nightclubs and queer community scene of the ‘70s and ‘80s. And don’t forget the vibrant streets across the harbour: an afternoon walk will put the art in Dartmouth.
There is no advance sign-up required and all walks are free, though some recommend bringing special supplies. View the full list of walks on the Jane’s Walk Halifax website.
Venice Biennale Highlights: Off-Site National Pavilions and Collateral Events – Ocula Magazine
Grown-Ups Night Out Events in Indy to Look Forward to This Year – Indy’s Child Magazine
Kids aren’t the only ones having fun in Indy! If you’re looking for a great adults night out adventure (or mom’s night out / dad’s night out with your parent friends), look no further. There are some great events to look forward to around Indy that are only for folks 21+.
Grown-Ups Night Out Events in Indy to Look Forward to This Year:
Children’s Museum After Dark
Location: 3000 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis
Next event: Decades After Dark featuring Scooby-Doo on June 24
More info: childrensmuseum.org/visit/after-dark
After Dark events at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis are exclusively for big kids 21+. Kick back with friends and associates for the most fun happy hour(s) Indy has to offer! Food and beverages are available for purchase.
After Dark events are scheduled throughout the year, and the next After Dark event is happening on June 24, 2022. Decades After Dark feat. Scooby-Doo lets guests dress up in their favorite style from your favorite decade — the ’70s, ’80s, or ’90s — and boogie on down to The Children’s Museum so you can bust a move at this totally tubular party for adults 21+.
Guests visit the newest exhibit, SCOOBY-DOO™ Mansion Mayhe, celebrate the vibrant Greek nightlife in Take Me There®: Greece, re-live favorite pop culture moments in American POP, and follow the clues on a scavenger hunt, and much more. Food specials, beer, wine, and a specialty cocktail will be available for purchase. Complimentary Pepsi products will be available.
Grown-Up Movie Nights at Murphy Aquatic Park
Location: Corner of County Road 625 East and County Road 100 South, Avon
Next event: “Grown Ups” movie on July 8, 7-10 p.m.
More info: indyschild.com/events/grown-up-night-at-the-pool
Enjoy Avon’s brand-new Murphy Aquatic Park with adults-only events occasionally during the summer! On July 8, guests ages 21 and older are invited for a night out at the pool while watching the Adam Sandler flick, Grown Ups, which starts at sundown. A cash bar will be available.
Throwback Camp at Conner Prairie
Location: 13400 Allisonville Road, Fishers
Next event: July 9
More info: indyschild.com/adult-only-throwback-camp-at-conner-prairie
Play like a kid and experience the best of Conner Prairie‘s Adventure Camp with Throwback Camp. Enjoy a grownups-only day of canoeing, ziplining, archery, camp crafts, field games, summer tubing, and more. Plan your summer to have fun, meet new people and share experiences! Feast on a catered lunch and dinner with s’mores and beer/wine available.
Admission includes a ticket to Symphony on the Prairie, exclusive concert seating and bar, meals, and activities. This is an 18+ event.
Monon Mixers at The Waterpark
Location: 1195 Central Park Dr. West, Carmel
Next event: June 16, 2022
More info: indyschild.com/adults-only-event-at-the-waterpark
Monon Mixers are adult-only, after-hours events where guests over the age of 21 can enjoy The Waterpark in Carmel without kids. The event includes access to all of The Waterpark’s features like the lazy river, adventure slides, and FlowRider®, as well as planned activities throughout the night like aqua Zumba® and log rolling.
Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase from a variety of local vendors and concessions.
Adult Nights at Freedom Springs Aquatic Park
Location: 850 W. Stop 18 Rd., Greenwood
Next event: Check the website for the latest dates
More info: greenwood.in.gov
Tap into your inner child and relax during these adults-only events at Freedom Springs Aquatic Park. Enjoy adult beverages as the sun goes down while listening to a live performance or a DJ pool party. Take a stroll around the Lazy River, race down the water slides, and relax in a lounge chair.
Brewfari at the Indianapolis Zoo
Location: 1200 W Washington St., Indianapolis
Next event: October 1, 2022
More info: indyschild.com/halloween-brewfari-adult-only-night-at-the-indianapolis-zoo
Enjoy an adults-only night at the zoo! Sample a selection of brews, enjoy music, and get up close with the animals at this 21+ evening.
Guests can enjoy exclusive after-hours access and stroll down the Indianapolis Zoo’s main pathways while sampling from 22 top craft breweries, cideries, and distilleries from Central Indiana and beyond. Several of the Zoo’s eateries will also be open late, serving a variety of sandwiches, snacks, and other fall favorites for purchase. There will also be various Halloween-themed activities, animal chats, and demonstrations throughout the evening.
Daniel’s Winery
Location: 9061 N. 700 W., McCordsville
Next event: Karaoke/DJ Friday nights, live music Saturday evenings
More info: danielsvineyard.com
Located in McCordsville, Daniel’s Winery is a full production winery that offers a private wine club and event venue for any occasion. Check their calendar of events (and follow them on social media) to be informed about the many events they offer throughout the month, all year long.
Some of the more popular adult events at Daniel’s Winery include live music picnics, karaoke contests and wine tastings.
Urban Vines
Location: 303 E. 161st St., Westfield
Next event: Trivia night April 27
More info: urban-vines.com
Westfield’s own Urban Vines serves up the wine — and wine slushies — as well as charcuterie, appetizers and gourmet pizzas, which you can enjoy on their 5-acre farm in the heart of the city. Sit and enjoy an adult’s night out in one of their igloos or around a fire pit, or take it inside and enjoy a wine tasting in their indoor space.
Check the Urban Vines website and follow them on social media to keep up-to-date on the events they offer throughout the month, including trivia nights, SINGO night (like BINGO, but with music!) and much more.
