Credit: Burnaby Blues + Roots Festival 2023
Summer in Burnaby wouldn’t be complete without one thing: the much-anticipated Burnaby Blues & Roots Festival. Returning to the scenic Deer Lake Park on August 10, this year’s festival promises an unforgettable experience with an exceptional lineup, headlined by none other than civil rights icon and GRAMMY Award-winner, Mavis Staples.
WHERE & WHEN IS IT?
The Burnaby Blues & Roots Festival will take place on August 10 at the picturesque Deer Lake Festival Lawn (6450 Deer Lake Ave) in Burnaby, BC. The festival kicks off at 4:00pm and runs until 10:00 pm, providing six hours of incredible live music and entertainment. Deer Lake Park, known for its natural beauty and serene setting, offers the perfect backdrop for this celebrated event.
Located in Burnaby, BC, Deer Lake Festival Lawn is easily accessible via buses. For those driving, parking in the vicinity is limited. Whether you choose to drive, carpool, or use public transit, getting there is straightforward – You can refer to Translink to customize your commute.
Credit: Burnaby Blues + Roots Festival 2023
Credit: Burnaby Blues + Roots Festival 2023
Why You Can’t Miss Blues + Roots Festival:
Star-Studded Lineup
Mavis Staples is set to grace the stage, bringing her soulful voice and powerful presence to Burnaby. Known for her significant contributions to the civil rights movement and her remarkable career with The Staples Singers, Mavis Staples has been a beacon of inspiration through her music and activism. Her hits, like “I’ll Take You There,” have left an indelible mark on the music industry, making her performance a must-see event.
In addition to Mavis Staples, the festival will feature an eclectic mix of artists that span various genres, promising something for every music lover.
- Calexico: Known for their genre-blending sound, Calexico’s music weaves together elements of Americana, Latin, and jazz. Their distinctive “desert noir” style is sure to captivate the audience with its evocative storytelling and diverse instrumentation.
- The Suffers: Bringing the vibrant sound of Gulf Coast Soul from Houston, Texas, The Suffers combine classic soul, rock, and Caribbean rhythms. Their energetic live performances and heartfelt music make them a standout act.
- Crystal Shawanda: This celebrated Canadian singer-songwriter blends blues, country, and rock. Her powerful voice and evocative storytelling reflect her Indigenous heritage and personal journey, offering a deeply resonant performance.
- the della kit: Representing the First Up with RBCXMusic program, the della kit fuses jazz, soul, and R&B with her ethereal voice and reflective lyrics. Her emotive, atmospheric sounds will provide a modern yet nostalgic musical experience.
More Than Just A Music Festival
The Burnaby Blues & Roots Festival is not just about incredible live music. Attendees can enjoy a variety of signature attractions and amenities that enhance the festival experience:
- Food Trucks: A selection of food trucks will be available, offering a range of delicious options to satisfy your cravings:
- Lemon Heaven (VEG/V/GF/DF)
- JJ’s Hot Cobs (VEG, V, GF, DF)
- Rocky Point Ice Cream (VEG/V/GF/DF)
- Green Coast Coffee (VEG, V, GF, DF)
- The Jerkshack (VEG, V, GF, DF)
- Shameless Buns (VEG, V, DF)
- Yo Bones BBQ (VEG, V, GF, DF)
- Kyu Grill (VEG)
- Reel Mac & Cheese (VEG, DF)
- Cravings Kettle Corn (VEG, V, GF, DF)
- Mom’s Grilled Cheese (VEG)
- Chickpea (VEG/V/GF/DF)
- Rotato & Potato (VEG, V)
- Beer Garden: Relax and enjoy a refreshing drink while taking in the music and atmosphere.
- Community Booths: Engage with local organizations and learn more about the community.
A Must-Do Summer Activity
The festival kicks off at 4 pm, with music and performances flowing until 10 pm. It’s a perfect opportunity to gather your friends and enjoy a day of fantastic music in one of the most beautiful concert venues in B.C.
Mayor Mike Hurley expressed the city’s excitement about this year’s festival, saying, “We’re thrilled to be welcoming another legendary performer, Mavis Staples, to the Burnaby Blues + Roots stage for 2024, along with so many other talented musicians. And we’re proud to once again be offering free admission, providing everyone with the opportunity to see an incredible festival in one of the most beautiful concert venues in B.C.”
Before You Go: Must-Knows
Before heading to the Burnaby Blues & Roots Festival, here are some tips to ensure you have a great experience. Admission is free, so arrive early to secure a good spot. Bring a blanket or low-back chair for comfortable seating. The festival is family-friendly, and there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay hydrated. Outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are allowed, but there will be a variety of food trucks offering delicious options. For those 19 and over, the beer garden will be available. Parking is limited, so consider carpooling or using public transit. Most importantly, come ready to enjoy an incredible day of music, food, and community in the beautiful setting of Deer Lake Park. For more info: https://www.burnaby.ca/recreation-and-arts/events/burnaby-blues-roots-festival