The Edge of the World Music Festival

The Edge of the World Music Festival is an annual festival held ont the Queen Charlotte Islands, Haida Gwaii. The purpose of the society, as stated in our Constitution, is a) "To provide support and opportunities for the exposure and growth of local musicians" and b) "To provide eclectic musical experiences for the islands communities." In addition, the music festival is one of the major summer events of the islands, and draws off-island visitors.

When fully set up and operational, the festival consists of a main tent which encloses the large main stage used by all performers, a side stage for transition music, seating under cover for approximately 150, and space for dancing, additional listeners, and our merchandise table. In addition, approximately 30 vendors ring the festival grounds selling food, crafts, jewellery, clothing, and other structures house a concession, workshops given by musicians and artisans, a children's tent, and a large hospitality facility that provides food for musicians and main coordinators of the festival. Fringe events are also staged. The last two years we have also supported a 26-mile marathon race held during the festival weekend. There are camping facilities set up on the grounds, and visitors also make use of adjacent areas, including island bed & breakfast facilities, and the beach.

The festival takes place for three days every second weekend in July. The society brings in 3-5 headliner bands as paid musicians, to provide an off island draw to the festival. Other musicians are selected by committee from off-island and on-island applicants.