A Season of Music Under Open Skies
Every evening in summer, people gather in downtown Revelstoke, drawn by the sound of live music. Grizzly Plaza, surrounded by historic buildings and the towering Selkirk and Monashee Mountains, transforms into a venue where locals and visitors enjoy free outdoor concerts.
Revy Live Outside is more than just a concert series. It is an event that brings the community together and showcases a range of musical talent. Every night for 56 days, musicians from across Canada and beyond take the stage, performing everything from rock and folk to reggae and blues. The event supports live music, boosts local businesses, and gives people a reason to come together night after night.
How Revy Live Outside Began
Revy Live Outside started as an initiative by Arts Revelstoke to bring more live music to the city's summer calendar. The event began with a few concerts and quickly expanded due to the community's and visitors' strong support. Today, it runs from late June to late August, featuring 56 consecutive nights of music.
The series was designed to make live music accessible to everyone. There are no tickets, no barriers, and no reserved seats. People arrive when they want, settle where they like, and enjoy the music on their own terms. The event has since become one of Revelstoke's key summer attractions, drawing music lovers from across the region.
What to Expect
The concerts take place in Grizzly Plaza, a central gathering space with a covered stage and room for an audience to spread out. Shows run from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. each evening, with a brief intermission from 7:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Arriving early allows you to find a comfortable spot and explore nearby amenities, giving attendees time to grab dinner beforehand or visit nearby shops before settling in for the music.
The event has an informal, festival-like atmosphere. Some people bring lawn chairs, while others stand, dance, or lean against nearby buildings. Families bring kids, and passersby stop to watch for a song or two before moving on. Grizzly Plaza is surrounded by restaurants, patios, and food vendors, offering a variety of dining options. Parking downtown can be limited, so walking or biking is a good alternative. Concertgoers should also take advantage of the event's relaxed format—whether standing, sitting or dancing, the space is flexible for different preferences.
The Music and Artists
Revy Live Outside presents a mix of music styles. The lineup changes every night, giving audiences something different throughout the summer. The series features a combination of well-known acts and emerging artists.
Some past performers include:
WiL&Co: An indie folk-rock act known for dynamic performances and skilled guitar work.
Road Waves: A band that blends rock, funk, and jazz, delivering high-energy shows.
Diyet & The Love Soldiers: A group that incorporates Indigenous storytelling into folk and country music.
The lineup includes artists from across Canada, many of whom tour the festival circuit during the summer. The variety ensures that every night brings something new.
The Event's Impact on Revelstoke
Revy Live Outside has become an important part of Revelstoke's summer economy. The concerts attract visitors, filling hotels, restaurants, and shops. Local businesses benefit from the increase in foot traffic, and some extend their hours to accommodate the crowds.
Beyond the economic boost, the event strengthens community connections. People come together in a shared space, returning night after night. The concerts introduce new artists to audiences who might not have heard them otherwise. Musicians get the chance to perform in a setting that appreciates live music, often leading to return visits and expanded fan bases.
The event also provides volunteer opportunities. Residents help with logistics, from setting up equipment to assisting musicians. Some families even host travelling artists in their homes.
Challenges and Adaptations
Outdoor events come with challenges. Weather is the biggest factor. Rain is common in the mountains, and organizers must decide whether to proceed or cancel based on conditions. In many cases, concerts go on despite light rain, with audience members prepared with jackets and umbrellas.
The COVID-19 pandemic also affected Revy Live Outside. Safety measures were introduced, including social distancing and capacity limits. The event adapted, ensuring that live music could continue while keeping attendees safe. These adjustments proved the flexibility and resilience of both organizers and the audience.
Sustainability Efforts
Revy Live Outside promotes environmental sustainability. Arts Revelstoke, led by Executive Director Robyn Goldsmith, emphasizes eco-friendly practices in its events. Attendees are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles, reduce single-use plastics, and use recycling bins on-site. Walking, cycling, or carpooling to the event helps cut down on emissions and reduces traffic congestion. These small actions contribute to a more sustainable festival experience.
The Future of Revy Live Outside
Revy Live Outside continues to evolve. Organizers are looking at ways to enhance the experience, from expanding artist workshops to incorporating interactive performances. Sustainability is also a focus, with efforts to reduce waste and promote eco-friendly transportation options.
Revy Live Outside has become one of the most anticipated events of the summer, and there are no signs of it slowing down. With continued support from Arts Revelstoke, local businesses, and the community, the series is set to keep growing.
Make Revy Live Outside Part of Your Summer Plans
Revy Live Outside is one of the best ways to experience Revelstoke in the summer. The mix of live music, mountain views, and a welcoming crowd makes for an unforgettable evening. Whether you're a local or just passing through, spending an evening at Grizzly Plaza is time well spent.
Bring a chair, grab something to eat, and enjoy live music in one of British Columbia's most unique outdoor venues. Summer in Revelstoke wouldn't be the same without it.
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