Calgary continues to thrive as the Cultural Capital of Canada in 2012, and what better way to kick off the summer (and live up to this designation) than the Sled Island 2012 Music and Arts Festival? The four-day festival features live bands, comedy, film, food and art in 30 venues across Calgary from June 20-23.
Founded in 2007 by Zak Pashak, the festival is no small undertaking. It features over 230 established and emerging independent bands, film screenings, visual art shows and panel discussions – sure to please the cultural palette of the Calgary young professional. Originally designed as an “experimentation in urban life,” Sled Island unites the city in an effort to break barriers that can exist among different businesses and industries, varying age groups, and different tastes in music.
A highlight is the free East Village Block Party on June 21st at River Walk Plaza in East Village. In what promises to be a perfect way to spend a Thursday evening, the party features eight acts and festivities run from 4-10pm. In addition to live on-stage performances, there will be a street-style skateboard competition hosted by Vans Shoe Company and The Source, delicious YYC food trucks to keep energy levels high, and the city’s favourite community market, Market Collective, will host a special edition so you can scope out a selection of the latest artisan couture.
The East Village block Party also provides an opportunity to showcase the soon-to-be-developed East Village, destined to become the premier urban living destination for young Calgary professionals.
Here’s the impressive lineup for the evening:
Lineup:
4:00 – DJ Teddy Celebration
4:30 – Pho (DJ from Bonjay)
5:15 – Vinny Slappers
5:45 – Smalltown DJs
6:45 – Calamalka
7:30 – Max Ulis
8:15 – HUMANS
9:00 – Flosstradamus
The outdoor main stage at Sled Island 2012 will be held at Olympic Plaza on Friday, June 22, and Saturday, June 23. Not to worry, “work hard, play hard” YPs: the main stage will be fully licensed. Grammy-nominated and Juno award-winning singer and songwriter Feist will headline the main stage on Friday. Other attractions include the sometimes-controversial Portland-based standup comedian Neil Hamburger and the legendary Juno award-winning Canadian instrumental rockers Shadowy Men On a Shadowy Planet, who reunite after 16 years.
Participants can pick up their wristbands at the Sled Island Headquarters in the Simmons Building in EV. Drop in to the EV Sales and Experience Centre next door and enter your name in the draw to win all-access, listen-’til-it-hurts Festival Discovery passes to the Sled Island Festival.
For more info, click here.