Arts and cultural festivals across the Kootenays are getting a boost this summer, with 17 events receiving funding through the Basin Festival Grants program.
The program is funded by Columbia Basin Trust and managed by the West Kootenay Regional Arts Council is aimed at easing the costs of putting on local festivals.
“Festivals bring people together and celebrate the unique character of each community,” said Christine Nichol, Manager of Delivery of Benefits at Columbia Basin Trust.
“We’re proud to support the people working hard behind the scenes to make these events possible year after year.”
One of the events getting support is the Steamboat Mountain Music Festival in Edgewater.
Held each July at the Edgewater Community Hall, the volunteer-ran festival features performances by local and regional musicians.
In Fernie, the Wapiti Music Festival is also on the list.
Taking place in Annex Park along the Elk River, the festival includes multiple stages of independent music.
Organizers say the grant helps cover key costs like tents, lighting, artist fees, insurance and permits, making it easier to keep the event running and affordable for the community.
The Basin Festival Grants are part of the Trust’s broader goal of supporting culture and community life in the region, particularly as arts organizers continue to adapt after the pandemic.
Festivals receiving support are located throughout the Columbia Basin, ranging from long-standing events to newer ones.
Exact funding amounts haven’t been released.
More details on the grant program and this year’s supported festivals are available at ourtrust.org.
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