2025 DCFS President’s Message

As I reflect on the success of the 2024 activities of the Duncan Cowichan Festival Society, I am reminded of the significance of what is just around the corner for our community.

The 39 Days of July, Wine Down Wednesdays in August, the 40th Day of July and the Grande Parade are all at the point of being mostly planned and greatly anticipated.

I have spent the last year again in the role of President and Treasurer, and am grateful for the support and belief of the rest of the board. I have witnessed the relentless dedication of Longevity John Falkner and the

passion and expertise of Dr. Ted Cadillac. I also appreciate the moral support and constant belief of Aiden Olenick who has been involved with the festival from it’s very beginning.

In all honesty, and recognizing this is true for so many, this has not been the easiest year. I have encountered major challenges in business and in life and have questioned everything about how I do things and why. I have definately come to realize that so much of what I do believe in to the core is this Community. I have found a path here and healed from many young adult traumas. This community has picked me up and dusted me off and sent me passionately off in a new and exciting direction several times. I am deeply grateful for that and am for always ‘in service’ to this incredible place I proudly call home.

Now, let’s have an amazing Festival and amazing Grande Parade. Let’s show off our wonderful Cowichan Valley and beautiful City of Duncan this summer with love, fun, fellowship and grace.

Looking forward to all the amazing connections and sharing the wonderful moments.

 Jeff Downie

President

Duncan Cowichan Festival Society