The days of July are ticking by fast, and we're well into the busiest part of summer. We've recently enjoyed a beautiful stretch of sunshine. We've been dipping in the ocean, cooling off in the rivers, enjoying lazy summer days where children's laughter echoes across the water and everybody seems to feel just a little bit better.
Haida Gwaii's summer events season has arrived in full force, as it always does, with something happening almost every weekend. We've already enjoyed the fabulous Hospital Days in Daajing Giids, followed by an incredible Skidegate Days celebration that went above and beyond with three pole raisings added to the usual lineup of activities. Well done to everyone involved!
This past weekend was Logger Sports Day in K'il Kun (Sandspit), which I attended for the first time in my 20 years on Haida Gwaii. It was a little chillier than I would've liked, and certainly colder than those attempting the log roll would've preferred as they splashed into the freezing pool. Still, it was wonderful to see the community spirit and watch so many young people competing in the different events, many of whom I've known since they were babies. I know I could never climb one of those poles, but it was impressive watching both the amateurs and the pros do their thing.
I got to do my thing too, with the privilege of DJing the Logger Sports Day dance at Hekate's Retreat Pickleball Courts. Kuttin' it up in K'il Kun was a blast, despite the echo-filled venue making the sound a bit of a challenge. It was a great night, with plenty of people dancing and enjoying themselves into the wee hours of the morning. Unfortunately, I, DJ Janet Planet, am a house music DJ, so those hoping for rock and country all night long were probably a little disappointed. You can't please everyone! I had a fantastic time, and you can check out the mix on SoundCloud.
Now it's time to look ahead to the Tlell Fall Fair on Sunday, Aug. 2, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It's the earliest fall fair in British Columbia, and this year's theme is Birds of a Feather. Come to the Tlell Fairgrounds, across from Misty Meadows Campground, and enjoy the livestock, bunnies, chickens, prize vegetables, beautiful flower arrangements, arts and crafts and, my personal favourite, the children's entries. There will be live music from El Combo Cumbialandia, Penny Pom Pom, Exit Strategy and more, along with plenty of food and craft vendors. It's always a wonderful opportunity for our communities to come together.
The following weekend, Aug. 7 to 9, the Edge of the World Music Festival returns to the same fairgrounds in Tlell. EOTW is a fantastic three-day event filled with live music, incredible atmosphere and amazing community spirit. Come enjoy both local and off-island talent. This year's headliners include Yukon Blonde, Miesha and the Spanks, Small Town Artillery, Mivule, Madeleine Roger and many more. Opening and closing with Haida dance groups, EOTW is truly an event like no other and well worth the very reasonable price of admission.
This year will also be my last doing ambiance for EOTW. I've been slowly stepping back from my involvement with the festival over the past several years, and now it feels like the right time to pass it along. If you've ever admired the look and feel of the festival, arguably one of the most creative and rewarding volunteer roles, come find me during setup on Thursday or Friday. I'll happily show you the ropes, quite literally the rope lighting that drives me crazy every year, and maybe you'll be inspired to make the role your own next year.
All of these events rely on volunteers to make them happen. Honestly, one of the best ways to experience these festivals is by volunteering. You become part of the magic and leave knowing you've helped create something special for your community. We especially love it when our off-island guests get involved too.
If you have the time and energy, please consider lending a hand. Both the Tlell Fall Fair and Edge of the World Music Festival are always looking for more volunteers. Get involved, and I'll see you there!