Fernwood Square and surrounding streets transform into a vibrant hub of creativity and connection with the 28th FernFest – and the addition of a third stage.
The newest performance space goes up behind the Fernwood Community Centre for the June 13 and 14 festival that features music, art, food and a whole lot of heart, hosted by the Fernwood Neighbourhood House.
It joins the high energy of the Fernwood Square Stage, which will host local legends, big-sound headliners, and the Little Fernwood Stage in the Fernwood Community and Arts Association, known for its eclectic mix and dancefloor-ready grooves.
FernFest features more than 40 live performances, showcasing a rich spectrum of sound – from folk and funk to indie rock, soul and global beats. Artists include Pastel Blank, Garret T. Willie, Hank Pine, Paris Pick and the Pricks, Vic High RnB Band, Mariachi Sin Frontera, Devours, Zoubi and the Sea and more.
The Big Fernwood Stage features its own dedicated beverage garden, pouring cold brews from Phillips Brewing and Malting Co. and Merridale Cider all weekend.
Beyond the music, the event bursts with opportunities to explore, connect and indulge.
The heart of the festival experience is the Field of Dreams on Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in Stevenson Park, a vibrant space that brings the community together with a fun-filled kids’ zone offering face painting, crafts, and interactive performances for children. Plus, it features the non-profit hub with local organizations sharing their work and offering ways for festival goers to engage with meaningful causes. At the same time on Saturday, a bustling artisan market lines Gladstone Avenue with more than 85 local makers. Food lovers can enjoy a delicious mix of flavours from an array of food trucks, pop-up food vendors, and beloved local restaurants, serving everything from global street food to plant-based dishes and sweet treats.
Lekwungen Traditional Dancers open the event June 13 at 5 p.m. in Fernwood Square with a territorial welcome and culture share. FernFest runs to 10 p.m. Friday (June 13) and Saturday (June 14) from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Find out more at fernwoodnrg.ca.
