Fort Nelson will come alive with local music, food and art next month as the annual Fort Nelson Street Festival returns for two days of community celebration.
The festival is set for Sept. 11 and 12, with 50th Avenue South closing in front of the Phoenix Theatre to make room for local vendors, artists and free entertainment.
This year’s event will also get an evening kickoff, with a Friday night market planned under a canopy of twinkle lights.
Francine Freeman, executive director of the Arts Council, said the goal is to create an atmosphere where people can enjoy local food, music and culture while connecting with one another.
“This year we’re going to have a night market on Friday,” Freeman said.
“The goal will be to have the street lit up with twinkle lights, activities through the street… an ‘under the stars’ party with some lights and local music and food and culture and just everybody coming together.”
Friday night will include a live performance in the Phoenix Theatre parking lot by Jordan and Daryl Laventure of the Laventure band.
Across the two-day festival, visitors can browse local food vendors and artisan booths, take part in interactive artist workshops and catch a movie screening.
Admission is free, including the workshops and musical performances. Visitors will only need to pay for any food they purchase.
For local artists and creators, the festival also offers an opportunity to put their work in front of the community and connect with potential customers.
Freeman said the event is focused on showcasing talent from Fort Nelson and surrounding communities, including Prophet River.
“All our vendors, all of our artists, all of our musicians, they’re completely local,” Freeman explained.
“So all from our region, some from Prophet River as well, which is very close to us. What it means to them is an opportunity to be able to showcase themselves, be respected as artists, draw attention towards their artwork, and give them an opportunity to make sales.”
Organizers are also encouraging participation from Fort Nelson First Nation, Prophet River and other nearby communities as part of the festival’s goal of creating an inclusive regional gathering.
And for people who have creative work but may be hesitant to put themselves out there, Freeman said experience or a large following shouldn’t be a barrier.
“You get the opportunities that you push yourself to get. The more you talk to people, the more you connect with people, really, you don’t have to be a super experienced artist to showcase your work,” Freeman said.
“It doesn’t matter how old you are, it doesn’t matter your experience, or if you have a website… you are just as much of a creative artist and you have just as much right to showcase your work. So just go for it.”
With the festival bringing together artists, performers, food vendors and residents, organizers are hoping the weekend offers a chance for the community to celebrate local talent while spending time together downtown.
