What to Pack for the Vancouver Folk Music Festival: Powering Your Weekend Sustainably
The Vancouver Folk Music Festival has endured as one of the city’s most cherished traditions. The upcoming event, held July 18th through the 20th, marks the 48th year of this festival, and it’s sure to be one to remember.
Held during the third weekend of July, this festival highlights traditional and contemporary folk artists of all backgrounds. It has historically given new and experienced artists a stage to showcase their talents and provided audiences with an opportunity to enjoy the cultural significance of this fantastic event.
This year’s event is just around the corner, and now’s the time to prepare for a weekend you won’t forget. Below, we dive into the event's history and some essential tips you should consider as you pack.
Where Is the Vancouver Folk Festival?
Founded in 1978, the first-ever Vancouver Folk Festival was held in Stanley Park. Though it rained for most of the weekend, this inaugural event was a huge hit and set the tone for the following decades.
Relocated to Jericho Beach, the event takes place each summer and draws a global audience.
What to Expect at the Vancouver Folk Music Festival
The festival property has four main stages, meaning there will never be a dull moment during your visit. In the weeks leading up to the festival, pay close attention to the website to learn of any schedule changes or last-minute announcements.
This is a highly attended event, so the more popular stages can get crowded quickly. If you want to be close to the action, prioritize the bands you wish to see most and claim your spot as early as possible.
Waiting for a show to start can be daunting without the proper gear. With the EcoFlow RAPID Magnetic Power Bank (10,000mAh), you can easily keep your phone battery charged and ready to go so you can stay entertained during your wait and still have plenty of battery to capture your favourite moments of the music set.
Where to Stay at the Vancouver Folk Festival
The best way to enjoy the music festival is to attend it in its entirety. With a star-studded lineup and so much to see and do, it’s worth purchasing the full weekend pass to take in all the event offers.
If you’re travelling from out of town or just looking for a nearby location to stay for the festival, you’re in luck. There are tons of great hotels and rental options to choose from, regardless of how large or small a party you are travelling with.
Can You Camp at the Vancouver Folk Music Festival?
Music festivals and camping go hand in hand, and for good reason. Spending quality time with like-minded individuals in the great outdoors is a surefire way to make friendships that will last a lifetime.
While you’re not allowed to camp on the Vancouver Folk Music Festival property, there are plenty of nearby campgrounds where you can stay and enjoy the full music festival experience.
The Capilano River Park is a 20-minute drive away from the festivities and is a great spot to park your RV or pitch your tent for the festival weekend. Here, you and your friends can relax in the hot tub or pool, or even run a few loads of laundry after your long days outside at the festival.
Another family-friendly spot is Porteau Cove Provincial Park. Located a bit further away from Jericho Beach Park, this site offers cabin rentals and could be the perfect glamping getaway during the festival weekend.
Long days spent outdoors can wear you down without proper planning. With the EcoFlow GLACIER Classic Portable Refrigerator Freezer, you can keep your campsite stocked with all the food and beverages you’ll need.
Vancouver Folk Music Festival Packing List
Every successful music festival starts with a solid packing list. Here are some things that should top your list as you begin to pack for the weekend ahead.
Festival Essentials
Festival ticket and parking pass
Photo ID and any other related documents
Blanket or chair (chairs cannot be taller than 28 inches)
Reusable water bottle (the festival will not have bottles available for purchase onsite, so this is a must!)
Backup Power
Portable phone charger or power bank
Multi-use charging cables for all of your devices
Portable power station for longer stays
Clothing
Light layers for the unpredictable coastal conditions
Poncho or a rain jacket
Comfortable shoes
Back-up socks and undergarments
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many People Attend the Vancouver Folk Festival?
Over 30,000 people attend this amazing folk music festival annually. This well-loved event draws in music lovers from all over the world and is a great place to connect with others who enjoy the folk genre.
Can You Sleep in Your Car at the Vancouver Folk Festival?
The Vancouver Folk Festival is held at Jericho Beach, with no onsite camping options available. Camping in your car overnight is prohibited at the festival, but you may be allowed to do so nearby. You can visit the Vancouver Tourism site to learn more about your options in the surrounding area.
EcoFlow Gear Powers Campsites and Enhances Your Festival Experience
With a stacked lineup and so much to see and do, you’re guaranteed to have a fantastic time at the Vancouver Folk Music Festival. Whether you’re coming for one day or planning to stay the whole weekend, this guide will help you take the guesswork out of planning.
Want to extend your stay and enjoy the Vancouver camping scene for a little while longer? EcoFlow’s RIVER 3 + 45W Solar Panel is the perfect addition to any tent or RV set-up and will ensure you have reliable and sustainable access to power for your entire adventure.