A Canadian- American singer/songwriter and guitarist and humorist– no filter, no seatbelt, no map- a founding member of the indie rock band the Rugburns- collaborated with singer Jewel, including the 1996 single “You Were Meant For Me” that went to number 2 in the US- you do not want to miss the chance to experience Steve Poltz- trust us

Identical twins who spent time in Shawnigan Lake growing up have moved to Nashville to continue their journey of sibling harmonies and original songwriting- they will also be performing at SunFest 2026 an identical twin duo

Wed. July 29th

Noon One Track Mind - a bunch of guys who truly enjoy singing their hearts out bringing folk/pop/soft rock to the stage with their harmonies

1pm   Without A Net yes, let’s talk folk and the ‘Woodie Guthrie’ attitude that can prevail- clarinet/flute/guitar  and singing songs with intent to make people aware of the political landscape

2pm   Anjanette Indelicato — indie folk/adult alternative songwriter blending soulful originals and reimagined favorites, with vocals that bridge Sarah McLachlan's raw storytelling and Ed Sheeran's modern acoustic

3pm   Glenora Hand Bell Choir / Paul Falkner - residents from Glenora Farm come to town - a real treat not only for the audience but for the performers who look so forward to performing for people / and Paul, he is my younger brother that while visiting from Ontario wanted to sing a few songs on stage

4pm   Late Kate -her voice has been called sultry, and when she sings the blues it's powerful and earthy. A dynamic, personable performer, Kate’s “captivating voice and infectious rhythms” will have your hands clapping and toes tapping

5pm   Paul & Joshua Gellman – piano / guitar  and vocals, father and son get to perform together because of this festival

6pm   Jared Popma and friends-singer/songwriter born in the valley and now a Nanaimo resident, his music is a true observation of his wonderfully almost naïve pureness / honesty        

7pm   Songwriters in the Round   - where 3 performers trade off 3 songs each in a panel fashion and yes,  discussion ensues  -this week  will be Steph Cutler / Genevieve Charbonneau /  Beverley McKeen

Originally from Calgary and now based out of San Diego the band was formed in 2014 by brothers Patrick and Liam Croome alongside longtime friend Bray Tario- their sound blends classic rock, Americana, soul and country, grounded in strong melodies, honest lyrics and three part harmonies- 3rd time to the 39 Days of July

Tues. July 28th

Noon  Anneda – heard her one year at the farmers market in Duncan and have been attempting to make it possible for more people to hear

1pm   Alick Troup -  singer/guitar player moved over to the island from the Sunshine Coast and loves to entertain with a fine choice of mellow covers                                

2pm   Kerrington Gillespie –south island  teen singer/songwriter that can sing real could and wants to be on stage- she will get her wish for  a long time to come- witness her now      

3pm   Kathy White Dancers – cute, cute, cute- so precious watching the young ones bring their A game to the stage

4pm   Renovation Blues Band  - these island boys have originals and covers that will rock you out with a solid blues delivery

5pm   Chris Noel and the Burning House – stand up bass, tender guitar licks and solid drumming, gonna be a good time had by all

6pm   Gerry Barnum - an excellent singer/songwriter, front man and side man for island blues bands or any project requiring a solid harmonica player, a one man act that can get you up dancing

7pm   Helen Davies Band -  there are queens of the blues on this island and one of them is definitely Helen Davies and with this stellar band of excellent musicians the dance floor should be full                                

30 Min Show For Audiences Under 8

Known for their commitment to their signature 1930s ragtime sound, members Norah Spades and Jitterbug James keep a range of unique tools in their arsenal, such as: spoons, washboards, resonator guitars and banjos, that move crowds all over Canada and the US. - thru their expressive storytelling, and eccentric demeanour, they are incredibly memorable performers  -2nd year at this year’s Islands Folk Festival  (42nd edition) we were able to have them also at the 39 Days of July 2026

Mon. July 27th

Noon Sam Hill – Eric Morton from Hill 60 has a side project of original tunes, come enjoy

1pm Jade Blakney – 1/3 of the Hardware Girls she has branched out as a solo sometimes and this is one of those times

2pm Jessica Blakney –another 1/3 of the Hardware Girls that has branched out as a solo sometimes and this is one of those times

3pm Warmland Dance- innovative dance routines showcase this studios credentials

4pm  Hanna Elise – with her music therapy she encourages that we find our own voices and shows us can be done when you do- most embracing

5pm  Jeeze Louise – 5 women that showed up at a Showroom Dress Rehearsal and grabbed our attention with their acoustic directions- had to let them showoff

6pm  Salome Cullen – this young country/folk roots singer/songwriter from Saltspring Island is the real deal and at 21 he is deserved to heard                                              

7pm  The Pontiac Bandits – the islands new country cover band hitting the scene looking for gems then shining their headlights on lesser known  artists – hear a perfect blend of honkytonk, outlaw and singer/songwriter tunes                                        

From Vancouver Island  and at 16 years old he has already made quite the mark as a well tempered yet mean blues/rock guitarist and with his stellar band mates he is here to impress you- and that he will do-            

Sun. July 26th

Noon Theo Massop – with Pete Surridge on bass, the songs off the new LP are about to be released to the general public today, specifically for us  singer/songwriter from up island                             

1pm   Chris Baron – Oregon resident doing two shows with us this tour, Chris brings along a cello player to brighten everyone’s day

2pm   Elena Erin  -   her sound, characterized by a blend of pop, electronic, and folk elements, showcases her versatility as she plays multiple instruments, including piano and guitar and her introspective lyrics are noted by listeners for their authenticity and powerful personal experiences                                                       

3pm   Piano  Recitals – Kristi / Brenda / Michelle / Damien - encouraged a piano teacher and two of her students and the son of one of those students to come on stage to showcase where their lessons have got them to

4pm   The Big Mess -father and son who perform alongside their self made back tracks with trumpet and vocals – we continue to bring them back to the festival cause people just like them so much         

5pm   Lost Talkers –a Vancouver Island pop-rock and indie band based in Victoria, BC. That  perform original music inspired by Vancouver Island small-town life and the West Coast Roots scene

6pm    Big Little Lions -  having performed at every major Canadian folk festival, the duo of Helen Austin and Paul Otten  is a blissful marriage of new folk and sophisticated pop - we are fortunate  they were in the area and available                  

7pm   LJ Mounteney Blues Group – from Vancouver, a blues voice to reckon with, her band is tight and her originals exquisite

At 21 years old, Nicholas Campbell has already earned the buzz of being “the real deal.”  -like a young wolf raised in the honky-tonks and record shops of Peterborough, he picked up a guitar at ten—and by eleven, he was not just playing, but commanding the stage. Backed by his band, The Two Metre Cheaters, Campbell is rallying rockabilly from its classic roots into something that feels scorchingly alive.             

Sat. July 25th

11am Zumba with Roselyn -a marvelous sight to behold and even better when you participate

Noon  Machine Room –local rock  cover duo that put out quite a solid performance                   

1pm   Zenith -spacey synth effects, prog rock guitar riffs and intricate boomy Bonham drums are key elements to the sounds of Zenith

2pm  Royal Blue -original band from the valley has written some good indie rock tunage, pay heed                        

3pm  Flowering Eyeballs – locals Aden Thorne and Ky Ren having been jammin’ for years now, it just gets better and better

4pm  AWOLz – Jai Mills likes loud dark yet delicate rock tunes and so writes in that fashion and the band pulls it off

5pm  Dirty Harriet – heavy hard  rock best describes this band who have been in the valley forever- still given’er

6pm  Fighting Words- Lennon has found some fine local musicians to collectively work on his most excellent rap writings, you know, bringing in that extra punch – most enjoyable and loud

7pm  Sourdope -a Canadian instrumental collective from Vancouver that is a bold original project rooted in jazz, funk, and modern instrumental soul and driven by horn-led harmonies and a deep-pocket rhythm section,

Blues based rock, acoustic soul and a touch of funk- based out of Victoria he has been nominated for a Canadian Blues Award in 2025 and continues to rock the world in his own fashion                            

Fri. July 24th

Noon Dale Manason  - fine taste in covers and presented so well with his electric guitar and back tracks        

1pm   Kent Ball -  living in Lake Cowichan, this entertainer knows the songs you want to hear and he plays them oh so well

2pm   Don Wilke -  local songwriter and a whiz at slide guitar his originals hit home- he sings of hope                            

3pm   Carlson’s  - over the years they have  brought some amazing young dancers to the park who have gone on to bigger thangs, but mostly they have brought young dancers who give it their best to entertain you- a photo op venture for sure

4pm   Rockson Road –from Gabriola, singer/songwriter with musical friends   

5pm   Son de Metal - from Nanaimo, blending indigenous traditional regional Music from Southern Mexico with some rock elements

6pm   Graham Francis Band – from Victoria this 4 piece classic rock/blues band features original songs off their new release- they do rock 

7pm   Goldschatz – as a duo -makes pop-driven Canadiana for people who fall in love on highways, miss each other across time zones, and believe a good chorus can fix almost anything and with over 2,000 shows between them, they write songs that sound lived-in, road-tested, and emotionally fearless.

While there are some impressive harmonic stretches which could put her vocals in the league of the likes of Stevie Nicks, the real appeal in Camille Miller’s distinctive sound is the magnetic accessibility- featuring on stage some of Nanaimo’s outstanding musicians, Rick Salt,Tina Jones,Joel Spillette and Mark Bottomley- also performing this year at the 42nd Islands Folk Festival on July 24-26th at Providence Farm                            

Thurs. July 23rd

Noon   Graham Strang / Britt Bonshor – from Maple Ridge, their individual vocal prowess is worth being witnessed, really

1pm     Leenie Beanie –a writer of many songs, she comes with a smile and an energy that sparks creativity in anyone who experiences her – she is a blessing with her many visits to our valley  -

2pm     Mark  Holley – a singer / songwriter that Leenie Beenie turned us onto

3pm     Spinny Ninny’s Belly Dance Studio   - Lara has 2 young students that are so precious to watch as is Lara’s own dances she performs- captivating to say the least    

4pm    Kristina Helene & Thomas Kinzel – two performers of excellence, vocals and keyboard, they get a lot of corporate gigs so to have them perform for us is a treat not to be missed

5pm    Eugene Smith and co. – the great Eugene Smith has many friends and much respect in the music world and some of them will join him today – at 82 he sounds better than ever

6pm    Nicholas Campbell - from Peterborough Ont., bringing a fine sense of rockabilly / roots country feel to the forefront, this trio will blow you away

7pm    Pony Gold – had heard of her and her slightly roots country vocals, what a voice, what a way of connecting to audiences, someone who needs for more people to be aware she exists – as a duo

30 Min Show For Audiences Under 8

They write and perform original compositions carving a path thru blues, jazz, jump jive, folk, country, swing and Indigenous soul with an authentic spirit, their sound does not idle easily in one certain category- it stomps and struts thru the wilds, conjuring  a blend where Howlin’ Wolf tangos with Django, Earnest Tubb shoots firecrackers with Cab Calloway and Memphis Minnie throws dice with Screamin’ Jay Hawkins –multi nominated and awarded for their endeavours, they are a highlight of the 39 Days of July 2026                            

The type of artist who can seamlessly blend genres; crooner, blues. musical theatre, classical and every rock song you can think of- his repertoire includes over 50 covers and a dozen originals- 3rd time back at the festival                             

Wed. July 22nd

Noon  Star Child and the Mystics – a harp / flute /reggae flavoured guitar  /  bass lines to weep over then  add ethereal vocals and soulful global lyrics and your day will be forever changed

1pm   Dan Fougère- calling Lake Cowichan home this fiddle player will bring a variety of tunes to keep the day going

2pm   Chris Baron – from Oregon, this singer/songwriter will be accompanied by his cello playing friend

3pm   Dress Rehearsal Showcase  - Michelle Frets / Todd Gordon /                                                      

4pm   Gordie Tentrees  -  this road poet has performed over 5000 concerts in 11 countries armed with 5 instruments (Foot Bass & Snare Tam, Harmonica, Resonator & Acoustic Guitars) taking the light from the dark with masterful storytelling.           

5pm   Jeanne Truax – from Peterborough, she was last year’s Emerging Artist at their festival- come find out why

6pm   The Blisters –guitar based original music with a melodic folk-rock sound from Vancouver Island 4 piece veteran players

7pm   Songwriters in the Round   - where 3 performers trade off 3 songs each in a panel fashion and yes,  discussion ensues  -this week  will be Don Wilke /Rockland Moran / Paul Black

Comprised of bandurist (esoteric Ukrainian harp) Alina Kuzma, and violist (not a violin) Zoë Ëoz. they perform primarily Eastern European folk songs about badass women in all their glory - creating a musical landscape that is both haunting and invigorating, blending their deep-rooted knowledge of traditional music with contemporary oomph -their performances are a celebration of femme power and a testament to the enduring strength and creativity of women throughout the ages                                

Tues. July 21st

Noon   La Vie Ensemble – performing in English and in French they bring a cultural connection to folk

1pm    Kate Stott – formost she has been an artist and now the expression has manifested into being a singer/songwriter

2pm    The Sleeve  - Felicia Harding, singer/songwriter from Victoria along with her Australian husband, bring much life to her songwriting abilities

3pm    Kathy White Dancers - the young ones put their heart and soul into these showcases

4pm    Third Degree- local valley residents continue to spread the faith of the blues whenever accorded the opportunity- electric blues from this 4 piece might have you dancing                                

5pm    Gary Preston  - a Winnipeg keyboardist and harmonica player who discovered Victoria some years back, there is a reason why Gary and his bass/ percussionist wife are invited back year after year, their knowledge of the blues genre and their performing skills are some of the finest        

6pm    Rick Taylor – solo -out from Ontario, this very fine blues guitar player and songwriter shows his acoustic side

7pm    Michael Patrick and the Blues Explosion -a very fine selection of musicians to take us all on a rockin’ blues journey not quickly forgotten

30 Min Show For Audiences Under 8

An Edmonton based Metis artist that has been sculpted by icy waters, warm summer breezes and sweeping prairie skies-whether thru gently textured acoustic ballads or ripping band cuts, Kaeley’s powerful voice and vivid imagery captures the depths of life’s most challenging moments with sincerity and precision- touring as a five-piece band                                    

Mon. July 20th

Noon Dave Scanlan  - an accomplished musician  has taken up residency in the Chemainus area and he came to the ‘open mic’ nite at the Showroom and was immediately asked to perform at this years festival, so here he is   

1pm   Neil Trett –from Victoria,not only is he a good guitar player but fixes them and sings and writes some fine music

2pm   Cara McCandless a powerful voice, along with her superb songwriting skills, makes you glad you had a listen

3pm   Warmland Dance -amazing to find out how much time and work goes into some of the dances performed- kudos to the teachers

4pm   Lola Parks  - with a voice as seductive as it is soulful, this soul folk po singer-songwriter weaves jazz roots into modern with effortless grace- lives in Victoria

5pm   Blue Dirt Girl - is Kathryn Sutherland vocals/electric guitar and Albert Klassen bass/harmonies - playing 11 singles off their new album LOVE ADJUSTED -original all genre free songs

6pm   Sarah Jane Taylor – from Vancouver, indie alt country / roots and today her dad Rick Taylor gets to join her on stage

7pm  Nicholas Campbell – from Peterborough, the young rockabilly picker returns to the festival, make sure you come watch those fingers move on that thee guitar                

Blues, jazz, country, rock, roots, world, and contemporary music all influenced Rick's early years on the club and festival circuits and he established himself firmly in the 1970’s southern Ontario roots  - guitar player on Willie P Bennett’s first two LP’s, he has gone on to make himself well known on the blues circuit throughout Ontario (also performing at the Queen’s Sunday afternoon blues jam before his concert on City Square Stage)                                      

Noon   Huckleberry Holler  -a local musical couple bring a real rootsy folk feel to the stage with splendid harmonies a fun instrumentations

1pm    West My Friend  - mingling grassroots guitar, accordion, mandolin, orchestral instruments and interweaving harmonies from this south island duo

2pm    The Ranters – acoustic folk trio with some fine tunes

3pm     Piano Time - the performers on stage at this time have all been seen out front of the Duncan Showroom playing the pianos we leave out year round, these are but a few today - Oscar  / Jennifer / Matthew / George                                                       

4pm    Carol Sokoloff – a Vancouver Island singer/songwriter whose passion for song spans genres from roots to jazz- and some friends will be joining her

5pm    Mike Bauche  this singer songwriter calls Nanaimo home, formally of From the Earth, his style works and his lyrics pull you in so you knows there is hope, always                                               

6pm     Belly Dancing Extravaganza  - lots of colour, lots of bling and lots of time put in to these costumes - so much excitement back stage for this annual get together of island belly dancers

7pm     Belly Dancing Extravaganza   - yes, 2 hours of spectacular fun and positive energy being shared in the community    

An ACDC Tribute Band made up of Pro musicians from Vancouver/Victoria  touring up and down Vancouver Island for over 10 years, they have amassed a large loyal following and put on an exciting energetic Rock Show from the Bon Scott era that will leave you wanting more.

Sat. July 18th

11am   Zumba with Roselyn - time to move your body to loud bass thumpin’ music with some soon to be new friends

Noon   Dale Manason – a guitar in hand with back tracks gives this guy a chance  to do what he does best, entertain  you with his choices

1pm    Patsy Thompson- from Vancouver, she performed here last year and impressed us with her energy for entertaining

2pm    Renfrew Road -yep, they live on Renfrew Road, well at least the main songwriter and his family do and his buddies gather to make musical sense of his endeavours

3pm   The Wilds -  led by singer/songwriters Holly Arntzen—vocals, dulcimer, piano, and Kevin Wright—vocals, percussion. When Holly and Kevin sing and write songs together, think Joni Mitchell meets Bon Scott ( of ACDC)

4pm   Clarissa and the Black Clouds  - local gal has a new musical project and with this new band to back her they will entertain you

5pm   Carmine  -  a four-piece female fronted alt-rock band from Victoria, BC, formed in 2024. Their first four singles earned them a loyal and growing fanbase on social media, as well as The Zone 91.3’s Band of the Month spotlight and Music BC’s spotlight of the week. Carmine’s sound ranges from the gritty and spiteful, to the sweet and playful, unafraid to explore emotional and sonic depths while remaining true to their alt-rock, indie roots.                     

6pm   Arbutus Roots- 4 piece indie-folk pop band. west coast rooted, high energy, acoustic guitar driven music from this Cowichan Valley

7pm   Sarah Smith - an award winning Canadian singer/songwriter who performs her energetic music all over the world

They pay homage to the most iconic progressive rock band of the 60's and 70's, focusing primarily on the years 1967-1975.  ’Pink Floyd, the iconic English rock band, formed in London in 1965 was one of the first British psychedelic groups, distinguished by their extended compositions, sonic experimentation, and philosophical lyrics-they became a leading band of the progressive rock genre, cited by some as the greatest progressive rock band of all time