If there was ever a music festival that could be described as “homegrown,” it’s the Bluesky Music Festival.
It all started with a dream and a very determined, talented man; Ray Hamel was a musician,
mentor, and believer in community and the power of music to bring people together.
Some 28 years ago, together with fellow musicians and friends such as Rob Bell, they got two
flatbed trailers and organized the first live music event in Bluesky Community Park.
“Bluefest” was born, and eventually a bigger stage was built. Organized by Ray, Rob, and The
Bluesky Community Club, for one day each summer, people would come from all around to
enjoy music, chicken bingo, barbecued hamburgers, fresh-made pies and kids’ watermelon eating contests.
It was a joyous time, all created and nurtured by a spirit of volunteerism. Why, even the bands and performers played for free.
A donation can help support the costs.
Sadly, over the years, that volunteer spirit died out, and the once vibrant stage and welcoming community park fell silent.
Music has always been a big part of my life, both as a performer and as someone experiencing the magic of it all.
Being a longtime resident of the hamlet of Bluesky, I felt I had to make the music and joy happen again.
So, inspired by my mentor and dear friend Ray, I got friends together, and we cleaned up the stage, which had become a giant pigeon coop.
The first Bluesky Picnic Jam took place in 2018.
Now, in 2026, with the help and music-loving support of Kurt Furstenwerth, Jill Luka, many fans, musicians, volunteers, and local sponsors, we bring you the official 4th annual Bluesky Music Festival, held in beautiful Bluesky Community Park, July 10 and 11.
The festival will feature 27 bands, beer gardens with local brews, activities for kids, craft vendors, food trucks, and, this year, a meet-and-greet with the legendary Terry Cahill from the movie Fubar.
This year’s lineup includes Rosina Cove, Sofa Gnomes, The Honey Cowboy, Pretty Damn Close, James Morrison, and more!
The blue sky is the limit!
Find out more at www.blueskyfest.ca
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