Paddle for the Coast: 5th Annual Festival Afloat Returns to Jericho Beach in Support of Indigenous Ocean Protection
Grab your paddleboard, kayak, canoe—or just a beach blanket—and join a sunsoaked ocean adventure for the planet. Festival Afloat is back for its 5th annual celebration, bringing together music and community in a unique floating concert experience at Jericho Beach.
This year’s on-the-water festival once again invites ocean lovers and justice-seekers to float up to a tall ship stage or settle in on the sand for an unforgettable night of live music and sunset views—all in support of Indigenous-led environmental defense.
Tickets are $15-$25 via Humanitix – events.humanitix.com/float – with all proceeds going to RAVEN (Respecting Aboriginal Values and Environmental Needs) to support the Heiltsuk Nation, who are in court to protect the marine ecosystem and strengthen Indigenous stewardship rights.
Highlights:
- Live music from surprise guest performers—expect funk, groove, and soul from some of East Van’s favourite artists, with headliners announced June 26th.
- Float-in concert format—bring your own SUP, kayak, canoe, or inflatable to launch from Jericho Beach at 6:30 PM.
- Prefer land? Cozy up on the beach with friends and enjoy the show starting at 7:00 PM.
- Support Indigenous legal action for ocean protection through a night of joyful solidarity.
Since its inception, Festival Afloat has raised tens of thousands of dollars for Indigenous Nations standing at the forefront of environmental protection. Previous events have featured musical acts performing on the deck of B.C.’s oldest boat, the soaring wooden ketch Providence. With audiences drifting on the waves in a sea of glowing paddleboards and boats, this year continues that magical tradition—building community, raising awareness, and mobilizing resources for Indigenous legal challenges.
The Heiltsuk Nation’s legal action arises from the devastating 2016 Nathan E. Stewart oil spill, which desecrated their traditional marine territory and shellfish beds. The case aims to affirm Indigenous governance over ocean spaces and secure accountability from the federal government. A win would set a powerful precedent for Indigenous coastal protection nationwide.
Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind fusion of art and activism. Come for the tunes, stay for the cause, and paddle for the future.Get your tickets now: events.humanitix.com/float
Media Contact:
Andrea Palframan
Email: andrea_palframan@mac.com
Phone: 250.537.6322
Website: andreapalframan.com/float
Social Media posts:
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Please include ticket link: events.humanitix.com/float
Post copy: So excited to invite everyone to join a paddle-powered, on the water festival at Jericho Beach! FRI JUNE 27 – 7pm
Grab your SUP, kayak, inflatable boat + canoes and float up to the tall ship stage… or spread a blanket on the beach to enjoy an evening of music + sunset.
Proceeds support Indigenous ocean protection. Tix $15-$20 or $25 – Proceeds to raventrust.com
Launch your watercraft from Jericho Beach at 6:30 pm or grab a spot on the sandy beach. Show starts at 7 with surprise musical guests — you don’t want to miss these East Van funk-groove favourites. Take in a great set of tunes & watch the sunset over the mountains at the 5th annual Festival Afloat.
Spread the word and get your TIX: events.humanitix.com/float
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