PNE announces return of an expanded Canoe Cultures as opening day approaches

by Mike Usinger on August 17th, 2023 at 2:11 PM

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With opening day this weekend, the PNE has announced the return of Canoe Cultures for 2023. Over the course of the fair, running from August 19 to September 24, over 50 Indigenous artisans will be onsite as part of the programming, including seventh-generation carver Mike Billy Sr. of the skwxwu7mesh (Squamish Nation).

Working with apprentices, Billy Sr. will teach fairgoers the traditions, tools, and techniques used in traditional canoe carving. Dance and music will also be featured as part of expanded Canoe Cultures programming.

In announcing the opening of this year’s fair onsite, PNE president Shelley Frost suggested Vancouverites have reason to, once again, be excited about the return of favourite events like SuperDogs!, Summer Night Concerts (featuring Billy Idol, Billy Talent, and Pat Benatar), and the 4H Festival. New this year on the music front will be Duelling Pianos, a performance by For the Love of Drag, and the Remix Inferno.

Celebrating its 113th year, the PNE Fair is Canada’s longest-running and largest ticketed event.