James Hay is a Western Canadian electric blues guitarist and singer/songwriter with over thirty years’ experience working fulltime as a sideman in blues bands. These days James can be found fronting The James Hay Blues Band and working occasionally as a solo blues act.

The James Hay Blues Band is a hard driving, swampy, delta slide, blues, jump, jive, swing and boogie trio based out of Kelowna B.C. comprised of James Hay on guitar and vocals, “Boogie Man” Blue Rooney on bass, and PJ “Like the Pyjamas”

THIS SHOW IS MIX & MINGLE UNDER THE EVENT TENT

Widely considered as one of Canada’s most prolific guitarists, Steve Hill has consistently delivered wildly ambitious performances and albums. Heralded wherever he goes, the guitarist, singer, drummer, harmonica player, songwriter and accomplished producer is a musical force to be reckoned with.

Further to the facts that Steve has won a Juno award, played concertos with Kent Nagano and the Montreal Symphonic Orchestra, won enough Blues awards to fill a bathtub and walked the boards of too many stages to count throughout his 30-year career, when you stop and start listening to his music, you know you’re listening to the real deal.

Blending old-time roots with modern-day storytelling, The Western Thistles are an Edmonton folk duo known for their clawhammer banjo, rhythm guitar, and rich vocal harmonies. The group was born from the musical connection between Mark Boer and Sabrina (Bri) Huot-Boer, who came together to weld their talents for the sake of the song. Their sound draws from folk, roots, and old-time traditions while carving out a space distinctly their own.

In 2025, The Western Thistles released their self-titled debut album, recorded live off the floor and co-produced by Miles Wilkinson (Guy Clark, Emmylou Harris, Darrell Scott). The album reached #26 on CKUA’s Top 100 most-played albums of the year, standing as a testament to their commitment to crafting songs with heart, grit, and intention.

As songwriters and performers, they channel lived experience into work that reflects both personal narrative and musical lineage. Rooted in a dedication to craft, they shape songs that foster connection, creating space for listeners to hear their own stories reflected in the music.

Renowned for his multifaceted talents, Dan Tait, a singer-songwriter based in the Okanagan region, has garnered acclaim for his
warm demeanor, lyrical prowess, and musical finesse. With a career spanning over 16 years in the vibrant British Columbia and
Canadian music scene, Tait has established himself as a gifted storyteller and a world-class entertainer

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Josh + Bex are a Dream Folk duo from the Okanagan Valley of BC. Their spellbinding harmonies and honed yet rustic sound,

meet at the intersection of hope and sorrow as they intuitively and vulnerably craft songs that explore the wondrous realm of

the human experience. Their sound is an alt folk fusion, reminiscent of Alison Krauss/Robert Plant meets Camp.

The pair have consecutively placed in the Kelowna Now's top-three bands/musicians since 2020, giving them wide recognition throughout the Okanagan Valley and beyond. The duo received their festival start, after winning the local Emerging Artist contest, at the internationally acclaimed Salmon Arm Roots and Blues Festival in 2019. Most recently, they warmed up the stage with Bahama's and The Paper Kites at Red Bird Brewing's Nest Fest '23 and played Kelowna’s premier indie winter festival, Fireside Festival (2018, 2021, 2023). Additionally, they had the opportunity to perform at the Jasper Folk Music Festival in September '23. Catch them this summer, at Saskatchewan's Napatak Ramble, July 5th and 6th.

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THURSDAY JULY 9TH

Sandra Kunz, a singer-songwriter from Penticton, brings a vibrant energy to every performance. She plays solo with her voice and guitar and plays with other musicians in a band, depending on your needs and budget. With a laid-back approach to Folk and Roots music, her powerful and captivating voice resonates with audiences of all ages. Sandra's original songs are a blend of folk, bluegrass, and soul with dash of grit. Always written from the heart, they explore the light and dark within us all, creating an authentic connection. Whether on stage or in a more intimate setting, her ability to pour her full energy into each space is undeniable.

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THURSDAY JULY 16TH

Joshua Burnside is an experimental folk songwriter, singer and producer. He takes influence from alternative electronica and Irish folk, chopping and blending them with a mixture of found sounds, world music and unorthodox production methods. Following an award-winning debut album and an acclaimed follow-up released during the height of the global pandemic, his music lives against the grain, in both style and spirit. Raised in the north of Ireland between the lush drumlins and hills of Strangford Lough, and the narrow entries and alleyways of East Belfast, Joshua’s music has defined and defied the post-conflict society of his home. Taking in the economics of existence, family, trauma and renewal, while set against a backdrop of tense electronica and lush Irish folk and traditional songwriting, Joshua has entrenched himself within the fabric of the modern folk canon, alongside the likes of Bon Iver, Ben Howard and Sufjan Stevens.

While his award-winning first album Ephrata took in lush landscapes, technological horrors, night terrors and wistful Columbian vistas (set against a bed of Irish folk, cumbia rhythms, and electronica), his critically acclaimed second Into The Depths Of Hell, took a far darker approach. Melding swirls of clanging metallic found sounds, alt-rock, and Irish songwriting traditions were supported by UK and US national radio and international tastemakers NPR, Guitar Magazine, CLASH, The Guardian, The Times and more.

His third album, Teeth Of Time, sits comfortably and confrontationally between the alt-folk realms of Bon Iver and Sufjan Stevens while retaining the indie singer-songwriter and traditional folk elements of Josh's signature songwriting.

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A musician, entertainer, and storyteller, just shy of 20 years old. Her journey into music began unexpectedly after an illness in 2021 left her unable to work or do much of anything for months. In search of extra cash, she took a chance on busking and quickly fell in love—it was performing like the theatre she did growing up, but she didn’t have to “be” someone else. People stayed for her.

Starting with covers, she eventually tried songwriting. At first, she hated it! But as she found her voice—funny, witty, wordy, and universal—it became an extension of who Ishe is. Now, songwriting and storytelling define her, and she couldn’t be more grateful to have stumbled into this path.

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Lovable songstress, Aidan Mayes, radiates an earnest heart brimming with luminous beauty through her soulful voice. Drawing inspiration from the nostalgic sounds of 90’s alternative pop, 70’s classic rock anthems and the spirit of Lilith Fair, Aidan's lyrics boldly express themes of loss, love, adventures, and aspirations for an even brighter future. With a classical foundation, Aidan fearlessly explores Joni Mitchell-esque alternate tunings, infusing her music with ethereal tones and captivating vocals that soar effortlessly alongside expertly crafted instrumentation.

Hailing from Penticton, BC, and residing in West Kelowna, BC, Aidan honed her craft at the Canadian College of Performing Arts in Victoria, BC, and achieved the highest accreditation in Theory from the Royal Conservatory of Music. Passionate about nurturing creativity, Aidan founded the Aidan Mayes School of Music, offering world-class instruction and fostering youthful exploration in the Okanagan community.

As a dedicated music teacher and dynamic live performer, Aidan continuously seeks to elevate musical experiences, creating moments of inspiration and joy. Her fifth studio album, "Dream Again," released in May 2021, is a testament to her journey of personal growth, self-love, and empowerment, brought to life through a visionary collaboration with multi-platinum Juno Award-winning producer, Ryan Stewart.

Following the success of "Dream Again," Aidan embarked on her most ambitious project yet, working with Stewart on a new Full-Length Solo Album “LOVE” set for release in February 2025, with 6 colourful singles emerging in 2024. In fact, the first single ‘Everything’ is available now on bandcamp debuting original cover art by Art Of Marina, an accomplished and gifted artist.

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Ari is a multi-faceted Canadian artist, who creates a flourish of interactive music with hands, feet.

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THURSDAY AUG 13TH

Imagine that David Lynch and Nick Cave had a hillbilly baby, that yodeled… or Tom Waits meets Elvis at Woody Guthrie’s hobo junction.  This is just one way of describing the man known simply as Petunia.  He’s an adventure seeker, a poker player, and a mysterious stranger.  He’s been referred to as “The Savior of Country Music”, and a man who exists in a different era, bringing the past forth as something new to be celebrated and not forgotten. A restless wanderer, a musical historian, and a quirky yet amazing talent, Petunia joins the greats from north of the 49th for his classic style and raucous performances. He is simply a Canadian treasure.

It wasn’t until he fell in love with the west coast that he would be compelled to settle down for a brief period over a decade ago, and “The Vipers” would gel together into a Bonafide music band. Although The Vipers would go on to include over 8 different guitar players at various times during their inception, including the likes of Paul Rigby (who went on to play with Neko Case among others) and then Paul Pigat (Gretch now builds guitars for Paul to play and represent the company name), Petunia and the Vipers now include Stephen Nikleva on electric guitar. He’s a 40+ year veteran of the touring circuit and former member of Ray Condo and the Ricochets fame, as well as the Sarah McGlaughlin band. He has been quoted by Exene of the punk rock band “X” as being “One of the 10 best guitar players alive today” and noted by Dave Alvin (“and the Guilty Ones” band) to be, “the intimidating guitar player”. Stephen is joined by Jimmy Roy on the lapsteel guitar (an early version of the pedalsteel guitar), perhaps one of the last great lapsteel guitar virtuosos still alive and touring. Another 40+ year touring veteran, Jimmy has played with Wanda Jackson, Ray Condo and the Ricochets, Big Sandy and his Fly Rite Boys, and a host of other Canadian roots bands. Together these two vets form the musical foundation of the band dealing out fiery solos and lush arrangements.

Aside from playing songs from their last 6 albums, on this tour the band will be featuring their latest release “Lonesome, Heavy and Lonesome”, perhaps their most sophisticated and varied release to date.

Dave Barber is a Canadian musician, recording artist (Molly’s Eyes, 2023), songwriter, singer, and live performer. He creates beautiful unhurried melodies and songs rich in tone and playfulness, pulling from classic country, roots, folk, and jazz. Having toured with musicians such as Colin James, The Chieftains, Barney Bentall, Dallas Smith, Chad Brownlee, Aaron Prichett, Aaron Goodvin (and many more!), Dave is also a member of Juno-nominated The High Bar Gang, and fronts his own Dave Barber Trio. He is the proud owner of a Canadian Country Music Award (BCCMA) and a Canadian Gospel Music Award (CGMA). Dave’s second studio album is scheduled for release in summer 2025. Have a listen at barbermusic.ca.

Dave currently resides in Penticton, British Columbia, Canada, with the BCCMA and CGMA award-winning bassist-singer-songwriter Kirby Barber, their daughter Lily, and Molly, their dog.  

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nightshades is a collaborative indie rock band, featuring four esteemed Canadian songwriters (Andrew Judah, Common Fires, DL Ranney, and N.Sherman). In a Beatles-Esque timeshare of genre-defying, vibrant music; nightshades' sound is rich with diverse music exploration but anchored by melodic hooks and irresistible rhythmic flourish.

With all four members swapping vocal and instrumental duties, nightshades' live show is both visually and sonically dynamic. Complementary (but distinct) timbres, abilities, and songwriting styles blend on-stage in real-time: nightshades assemble a jigsaw puzzle of talent in front of their audience with every performance.

nightshades is a very good friend of yours. 

Dan Tait & Aidan Mayes are an evocative musical couple, merging their unique talents to craft an exciting new duo project. Aidan, a renowned singer-songwriter from Penticton, BC, mesmerizes listeners with her soulful voice and poignant lyrics, influenced by 90’s alternative pop and folk.

Dan, originally from the Ottawa Valley, brings over 18 years of experience in the music industry, known for his warm guitar lines and powerful vocals that traverse folk, rock, and blues.

Together, they blend Aidan's ethereal melodies with Dan's infectious rhythms, creating performances that are both heartfelt and invigorating, driven by a combined joy for storytelling. Their enchanting stage presence and natural chemistry captivate audiences, ensuring an unforgettable experience. As they embark on this collaborative adventure, Dan and Aidan invite you to experience a fresh musical adventure that celebrates their passion for music and each other. Prepare to be enchanted by an extraordinary performance that will resonate longafter the final note!

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Kristi Neumann is a gifted singer/songwriter who grew up in Montana and also spent much of her musical career in Nashville, Tennessee.

Neumann successfully carved out a place for herself in a town that does not forgive mediocrity. Armed with a growing catalog of self-penned tunes, her prowess as a writer, band leader and performer definitely turned heads. Kristi's music is original and provocative. Her songs weave through themes that embrace both wandering past and an optimistic hope for things to come. With perfect sensibility, her introspective lyrics leave just enough room for well-crafted, pop-friendly hooks.

Neumann now resides in Oliver, British Columbia. She has played a variety of venues as a solo artist and has recently joined forces with top notch local musicians Luke Whittall, Greg Reely and Paul Henbury to form The Kristi Neumann Band.

Hailing from Six Nations of the Grand River, and fresh from his triumphant performance at the Los Angeles Kia Forum in front of 18,000 screaming fans for ‘Life is a Carnival: A Musical Celebration of Robbie Robertson’, Mohawk artist Logan Staats continues to prove his performance and songwriting ability. Recent highlights include a Juno Award nomination for his album ‘A Light in the Attic’, receiving the TD SOCAN Indigenous Songwriter Award, earning a Native American Music Award win in the U.S., and charting #7 iTunes Rock Chart for his single ‘Deadman’. Logan first rose to national prominence when he won CTV’s ‘The Launch’ and released his debut single ‘The Lucky Ones’ which peaked at

#1 in Canada.

As a land defender, a cultural tastemaker, and a sought-after collaborator, he has performed and created with artists such as Allison Russel, Terra Lightfoot and Serena Ryder. He has brought his raw and electrifying performances across Canada, and around the world, with dates in the U.S., Europe and South America, and acted as support fo Mumford & Sons, Eric Clapton and Steve Earle.

Victoria born songwriter Leeroy Stagger grew up on Vancouver Island, immersed in rural rhythms and the sublime power of nature before moving to southern Alberta to write songs while surrounded by the relentless prairies, then he circled back to his native city. His first bands were immersed in punk ethics, embedding the strong sense of justice and urgency which fuels his journey as a solo artist.

Within a few years of commencing his songwriting pilgrimage, one of Stagger’s songs was used in Grey’s Anatomy twice before he turned 25. Thus, it’s no surprise his songs have won awards, honoring his innate affinity for melody, rhythm and integrity. During this journey, Stagger embraced sobriety and, with his ingrained principles of open heartedness and candor - explored in book (2019 memoir Strange Path) and music (over a dozen albums) - he continues to write songs that capture moments and memories and captivate listeners. That journey of melody and insight continues in 2026 with new album “Pilgrimage”. He also built a home studio and produces other songwriting gems like Mariel Buckley, Tim Easton and Pony Gold and celebrates fellow songwriters weekly on CKUA’s Dirty Windshields Radio Hour. 

Listening to Stagger’s music one is privy to intimate flashes; Stagger doesn’t dilute the gritty, dark moments endured in the ebon gloom of the soul, yet his music lifts, fueled on brutal candor and an unquenchable desire to capture the luminosity lurking on the other side of the shadowed horizon. The songs rove with the acumen of ancient peoples exploring variegated landscapes, goosed along by flashes of old-school punk iconography, a kinked chord reminiscent of the harmonies and optimism of the 1960s, and raw rockin’ rhythms that shake your butt while they shake up your mind. Mostly though, the music sounds born to soar over those vast, airy prairies where Stagger’s songwriting journey accelerated, open stringed, open minded, open-hearted melodies heading toward the wide-open future in bathed in glorious, long light.

Mary-Lynn Wardle

Wil Mimnaugh’s shows have been coined as legendary; his guitar style; ‘mesmerizing’; captivating listeners with his unusual strumming technique while creating lush, fat and full acoustic guitar sounds that have become signature to the enigmatic fiery, silver bearded frontman that heads up the Westcoast based Indie folk rock outfit known as WiL and Company. The company includes his long-time drummer Keith Gallant and, when the occasion presents, Ulti-instrumentalist Tyler Lieb. Tales of this band's legendary live show and songs like Travel Alberta's soaring anthem 'Roam' that WiL penned for them paved the way to share floorboards with the likes of Feist, Matthew Good, Matt Andersen, Ray LaMontagne and many more. WiL spends his time off the road penning music for film/ TV, song writing, practicing Goju Ryu Karate and riding anything with two wheels. WiL is currently working with alt country artist and producer Leeroy Stagger on new music that is slated for release in 2026.

The Sun Down Strut Around Harvest Tour

Another celebration of the bounty through song and story with country blues artist Little Miss Higgins. With tunes of new and old, The Harvest Tour is a crisp reminder of what’s to come. Higgins cultivates not only a heartwarming stage show with a Manitoba Ruckus of a band, but also a traveling market feel on the merch table with LMH home grown garlic, handmade soap, and much more.

The premiere run of the Harvest Tour in 2024 had packed houses and an overwhelming response to the garlic–sold out before the tour was over. With double the crop waiting in the winter wings, Higgins cannot wait, not only to strut around onstage, but share the bounty of

With over 17 combined Canadian Folk Music, East Coast Music, and Music Nova Scotia awards and nominations, the JUNO-Nominated powerhouse duo, Cassie and Maggie, emerge as an unstoppable force on the global folk stage. Unleashing a magnetic energy, they seamlessly weave their deep Celtic heritage with contemporary influences. Committed to not just preserving but also propelling Nova Scotia's folk traditions into new realms, Cassie and Maggie bring an exhilarating energy that is both timeless and irresistibly modern. Their eagerly anticipated 5th studio album, "Gold and Coal," poised to solidify their status as folk music trailblazers

Anna Katarina is a Canadian-American singer-songwriter blending Americana with retro pop hooks. Known for her soulful vocals and warm, engaging stage presence, she delivers a show that feels both timeless and contemporary. Exclaim Magazine hailed her as “one of Canada’s most exciting emerging artists.

Join us for a super special evening with this phenomenal female double bill:

Geneviève Racette, a highly acclaimed folk-pop musician from Québec, has captured the hearts of listeners with her gentle yet compelling emotional resonance. Geneviève has become a rising star in both the French and English-speaking Canadian music scenes, known for her vulnerable lyricism and ethereal vocals.

Aidan Mayes - musician, teacher, artist, singer/songwriter, business owner and proud Okanagan woman.

We are excited to be in collaboration with Aurora Dawn Matheson Fine Arts Gallery. Enjoy a curated visual art experience featuring the work of a diverse group of artists with your visit to the cafe and/or Linden Gardens.