The first official day of summer deserves a heatwave.
Since the weather didn't cooperate with unfettered sunshine, the duty falls to, ironically, the organizers of Coldsnap.
The city's winter music festival will make the jump to summer just this once, in recognition of Canada's 150th anniversary of confederation. The Heatwave Festival starts July 1 and spreads out for eight days of outdoor entertainment.
The music happens in Canada Games Plaza between the Two Rivers Gallery and the Civic Centre. There are evening concerts and lunchtime shows to take in. It is a mix of acclaimed local musicians, some of B.C.'s best acts, and national celebrities with global renown.
The key headliner is Bruce Cockburn (Lovers In A Dangerous Time, Mighty Trucks of Midnight, Wondering Where The Lions Are, One Day I Walk, Pacing The Cage, etc.).
To help plan that rare set of daily music stars, the official schedule is:
July 1, 7 to 10:30 p.m. - The French Connection, Andino Suns, Delhi 2 Dublin
July 2, noon hour - The Albas, 7 to 10:30 p.m. - Saltwater Hank & Amy Blanding, Don Amero, Stephen Fearing
July 3, noon hour - Nove Voce, 7 to 10:30 p.m. - The Statistics, Linda McRae, Shred Kelly
July 4, noon hour - Zavan Trio, 7 to 10:30 p.m. - Jerusha White, Red Moon Road, April Verch Band
July 5, noon hour - Prince George Cantata Singers, 7 to 10:30 p.m. - Khast'an Drummers, Scarlett Jane, Bruce Cockburn
July 6, noon hour - Frontal Lobotomy, 7 to 10:30 p.m. - Jack Van Somer, Rachelle Van Zanten, Ccile Doo-Kingu
July 7, noon hour - BMO KidzArt Dayz featuring Charlotte & Matt Diamond, 7 to 10:30 p.m. - the continuation of BMO KidzArt Dayz featuring Charlotte & Matt Diamond
July 8, 7 to 10:30 p.m. - Kym Gouchie & Friends, Donn Roberts Band, The Paperboys
All Heatwave Festival concerts are free of charge, thanks to the sponsorship support of The City of Prince George and the Government of Canada.
