Summary

This weekend, two vibrant music festivals are taking place on opposite ends of Vancouver Island. The North Island Music Festival in Port McNeill features 65 artists across two stages, showcasing local talent on August 23, while the Harbour Blues ’n Roots festival in Victoria offers free daytime performances and ticketed evening shows from August 22 to 24, featuring notable acts like Shemekia Copeland and The Harpoonist & The Axe Murderer.

Details

This weekend, music lovers on Vancouver Island have the opportunity to enjoy two vibrant festivals taking place at opposite ends of the island. The North Island Music Festival in Port McNeill and the Harbour Blues ’n Roots Festival in Victoria promise a diverse lineup of performances, showcasing local talent and renowned artists alike.

The North Island Music Festival, now in its fifth year, is a community-driven event that features two stages and a lineup of 65 artists. Scheduled for Saturday, August 23, 2025, the festival will kick off at noon at Centennial Field. Attendees can expect a continuous flow of music, with performances from B.C. originals such as Anna Katarina, Michaela Slinger, and The Infinite Atom. The festival will culminate in a solo set by The Harpoonist, making it a must-see for fans of local music. Powered by over 80 volunteers and local business support, this festival is a true celebration of Port McNeill’s musical spirit.

Meanwhile, the Harbour Blues ’n Roots Festival will take place from Friday to Sunday, August 22–24, 2025, at Ship Point in Victoria’s Inner Harbour. This festival offers a unique blend of free daytime performances and ticketed evening shows. Daytime sets will run from noon to late afternoon, featuring local acts, while the evening headliners will take the stage at 7 p.m. Notable performances include The Harpoonist & The Axe Murderer on Friday, Shemekia Copeland on Saturday, and Bywater Call, a seven-piece band known for their Southern soul and roots rock, on Sunday. With its picturesque waterfront setting, this festival promises an enjoyable experience for attendees of all ages.

Both festivals highlight the rich musical culture of Vancouver Island and provide an excellent opportunity for residents and visitors to come together in celebration of music. Whether you’re in Port McNeill or Victoria, there’s no shortage of talent and entertainment this weekend.

Sources

• CHEK: https://cheknews.ca/two-music-festivals-hosted-on-opposite-ends-of-vancouver-island-1274226/

Updates Timeline

08/21/2025, 11:36 PM - Admin edit

Last updated: Thursday, August 21, 2025 at 11:36 PM