Thousands of visitors are expected in Merritt, as local and internationally acclaimed musicians perform at the 10th-annual Bass Coast Festival, July 6-9, 2018.

The popular festival features live electronic music on five stages, performance art, large interactive art installations, local artisans, and workshops on topics ranging from event consent culture to music production.

The festival is expected to attract 5,500 people, and generate more than $450,000 in economic benefits for the community. The government has provided $45,000 to help organizers promote the festival.

“This special event is a great asset for the City of Merritt, and I’m proud our government is supporting it,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture. “The Bass Coast Festival is helping make Merritt’s reputation as a top destination for visitors who love music, art, and nature — and it provides an important boost for local tourism.”

The festival will showcase top musical acts like Nadia Rose, MNDSGN and Funk Hunters. Festival participants can also enjoy roving performance art by Calypsa Agency, Made in Alchemy and Freestyle Focus Group.

“We really appreciate government’s support for the Bass Coast Festival,” said festival organizer Anna Hilliar. “It has allowed us to advertise widely, and sell out the event. We hope our out-of-town visitors will extend their stay in the beautiful Nicola Valley, and try some of the many great outdoor activities the region has to offer.”

Government funding for the Bass Coast Festival is being provided through the Tourism Events Program. The program supports events that raise awareness of B.C.’s tourism experiences, and inspires people from around the world to visit the province. These events also generate tourism and economic activities in regions throughout British Columbia.

Quick Facts:

• Tourism is an important economic driver for B.C., generating more than $17 billion in revenues in 2016.
• Tourism is one of the province’s biggest employers. More than 133,000 people work in this industry.
• Tourism is growing in importance for B.C’s economy. In 2016, the industry contributed $7.9 billion in added value to the province’s gross domestic product (GDP). This is an increase of over 5.6% over the previous year.
• The Government of British Columbia invests over $123 million in the tourism sector annually.
• In 2017, 5.7 million international visitors came to B.C. — a 3.3% increase (181,700 more visitors) over 2016.

Learn More:

For more information about the Bass Coast Festival, visit: https://basscoast.ca/

For more information on the Tourism Events Program, visit: www.destinationbc.ca/BC-Tourism-Industry/Municipal-and-Regional-District-Tax-Program/Tourism-Events-Program.aspx