THE 2023 FESTIVAL
At the heart of the Fort Langley Jazz and Arts Festival, we aim to bring a festival experience like no other, with exceptional artists, extraordinary musical performances and visual art in a very special setting.
From July 20-23, 2023, for the sixth edition of the festival, we will continue to present expansive and inclusive programming featuring international, national, regional and local world-class musicians, youth and emerging talent, Indigenous art and culture along with art installations and exhibits. This programming will take place throughout the Village of Fort Langley and across multiple stages and venues and include both free performances and headliner ticketed shows.
Cool Blues Show, Friday & Saturday, July 21 & 22
Fort Langley Park
The 2023 Cool Blues Show offers two nights of non-stop unforgettable blues performances on two outdoor stages at our brand-new venue, Fort Langley Park. We will have five bands each night – one up-and-coming emerging opening act and four incredible headlining acts - for a total of 10 bands over the weekend.
Presented by the Georgia Straight, the Cool Blues Show has one of the biggest blues show lineups in festival history. Music fans are encouraged to take advantage of early bird weekend passes that will be available between March 15th and April 30. Regular-priced weekend passes and single tickets go on sale May 1st.
We are beyond excited about the diverse lineup of outstanding blues musicians who will be performing at our blues show from across BC, Canada, and internationally, There will be something for every blues fan.
2023 Cools Blues Show headlining acts are:
Friday, July 21st:
Ruthie Foster - One of the most honoured blues and gospel singers of our time, the multiple Grammy nominee is a true veteran in the industry and brings a Texas blues-Americana sound in gospel, jazz, folk, soul and blues.
The Harpoonist and the Axe Murderer - Delivering good vibes, rock, groove and soul, this Juno-nominated band based out of Vancouver is known as one of the best live blues performers. The pair have combined their decades of musical know-how to create a unique take on Rock & Roll swagger and deep blues style.
My Son the Hurricane - A hurricane of instruments and positive vibes, they will be coming in hot with their multi-horn, multi-singer and multi-drummer “brass funk beast.” Featuring trumpets, saxophones, trombones, guitars, drums and other percussion instruments.
Cousin Harley - With high-energy rockabilly and western swing at its finest, Cousin Harley will be exploding onto the stage with an “all-out” approach to rock and roll that has entertained international audiences for over 20 years.
Emmett Jerome & Hollywood Alberta - The bar-rockin’, foot-stompin’ passion project from Emmett Jerome will explore his love for all things blues, roots and rock-n-roll, while featuring a funky rhythm section, blazing steel guitars and heartfelt original music.
Saturday, July 22nd:
Five Alarm Funk - With epic arrangements, heavy groove and a unique fusion of jazz, funk and rock, the Vancouver-based band is renowned for hyping up the dance floor with amped-up horn, percussion and guitar sections that are sure to get you moving.
Crystal Shawanda - Get ready to be blown away by the Juno winner’s unmistakable powerhouse voice which led to a Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary Blues Album of the Year 2022.
Silent Partners - Legendary bassist Russell Jackson, talented percussionist Tony Coleman and guitarist Jonathan Ellison pull from over half a century of combined experience to shine a light on the soul of the blues and bring a refreshing take on modern blues music.
David Gogo Band - Led by Westcoast blues guitarist David Gogo, the band offers a great blend of soulful ballads to high-energy rockers that will have you tapping your toes. Gogo is a six-time Juno Award nominee and won the Great Canadian Blues Award for his lifetime contribution to the blues in Canada.
Marcus Trummer Band - An illustrious emerging Canadian artist, Marcus Trummer’s unique sound weaves southern soul, blues and roots rock into a modern sound steeped in tradition, “rock and soul”.
For more information on the lineup and to purchase tickets to the Cool Blues Show go to: https://www.fortlangleyjazzfest.com/2023-cool-blues-show
FEATURED FREE STAGES AND EVENTS, July 22 & 23
COMMUNITY HALL STAGES AT THE FORT LANGLEY COMMUNITY HALL
The main stage and secondary stage located in front of the historic and iconic community hall will feature a diverse range of world-class jazz acts from straight-ahead jazz and blues bands to big band, Latin, swing, gospel and more.
KIDZ ZONE, MARY STREET
The Kidz Zone will feature interactive and hands-on music and art activities
and entertainment for children and young people to enjoy.
YOUTH & EMERGING ARTIST STAGE, CN STAGE
Youth and emerging talent will be featured at this stage in the picturesque
gardens of the Historic CN Station.
INDIGENOUS ART & CULTURAL EXHIBITION, BEDFORD LANDING
The Fort Langley Jazz and Arts Festival is extremely proud to present the
second edition of the Indigenous Art & Cultural Exhibition, where local
Indigenous musicians and artists will be featured. This special presentation
will feature Indigenous art, cultural exhibits, demonstrations and music
including Pow Wow drummers and dancers.
ART ZONE, POST OFFICE GRASS AREA
This special area features a music stage, art exhibits, art workshops, art stations and demonstrations
OTHER FREE VILLAGE-WIDE OUTDOOR EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
• Free big band community concert, Fort Langley Community Hall on Thursday, July 20
• Annual Mardi Gras Strolling Parade to open the festival on Saturday, July 22
• Jazz Vespers Service on Sunday, July 23
• Street entertainment, Saturday & Sunday, July 22 & 23
• Fort Langley Artist Group outdoor art exhibit at the former Birthplace of BC Art Gallery