"The Tri-Cities' ultimate celebration of arts and culture" is returning to Coquitlam in three weeks.
The 2023 Kaleidoscope Arts Festival is set to feature dozens of live performances that highlight the region's contemporary side in hopes of immersing visitors in something new.
And just like the last few years, the family-friendly event of its kind will transform two locations — Town Centre Park and Blue Mountain Park — into creative community hubs on Aug. 18 and 19.
"Now in its eighth year, Kaleidoscope offers residents and visitors an unforgettable arts and culture experience with free admission, award-winning musicians, dance performances, workshops, children's activities, and opportunities to learn about local culture and Indigenous history," said Wondy Chan, Coquitlam's cultural and community event supervisor, in a release.
Chan said Kaleidoscope is also hopes to express a journey of reconciliation with local First Nations.
This includes featuring Indigenous artists and performers Tzo’kam (Stl’atl’imx [Lillooet]), Lorelei Lyons of "2 Métis Women," and Métis wood-carving artist Pat Calihou.
What to expect
Day one of Kaleidoscope will take place the night of Aug. 18 at Town Centre Park (1299 Pinetree Way) by the community plaza stage.
Juno Award-nominated indie rock band The Zolas are headlining the night of music at 6 p.m., followed by Victoria, B.C.'s own Current Swell at 8 p.m.
Concert-goers will also be treated to six on-site food trucks:
- Fijian Fusion Catering
- Gary's Kettle Corn
- Kampong
- Rocky Point Ice Cream
- Shameless Buns
- Tornado Potato
The next day, Aug. 19, the festival will shift to Blue Mountain Park (975 King Albert Ave.) for a series of hands-on arts and culture programs.
Activities on the agenda include storytelling, aerial dancing, fabricating and woodworking, poetry writing and other interactive workshops.
For more information and a full schedule, you can visit the event's page on the City of Coquitlam website.
The Tri-City News is a media sponsor of the 2023 Kaleidoscope Arts Festival.
