The second annual Sasquatch Country Festival takes place this weekend (June 18 and 19) in Lake Errock.
The two-day event is free and features plenty of entertainment and activities including a pancake breakfast, a performance by the X-Corps Drumline, a talent show, First Nation cultural speakers, arts and crafts for kids and Gerald Charlie and the Black Owl Blues.
There will also be war canoe races, a youth soccer tournament and more.
On Saturday night, at 7 p.m. grab a lawn chair and watch a free performance by comedian Don Burnstick.
The event takes place at 12892 Moses Drive in Lake Errock. For more information, call 604-826-5813.
How it started:
Sq’ewlets (formerly Scowlitz First Nation) has held annual war canoe races for years, but there was no festival atmosphere. Three years ago, organizers added a youth soccer tournament, but it still didn’t have a family festival feel.
After meeting with a group that wanted to brand Harrison Mills, it was suggested that the area be named Sasquatch Country. Fraser valley Regional District area C was eventually renamed Sasquatch Country electoral area.
Last year, the Sasquatch festival was created.
“Our community has the only available land and infrastructure to host an event of this size,” said Sq’ewlets Chief Colin Pennier.
“We wanted to create an event in the area to help build community and break down barriers between the Indigenous and non-indigenous communities. The main purpose of the family events was to provide a free family experience.”
Last year the event featured activities and entertainment with a firework show. An estimated 2,500 people attended and organizers are hoping to attract 4,000 over the two days this year.