The Kamloops arts community will once again come together this winter for The More the Merrier fundraiser concert, an annual event supporting the Kamloops Festival of the Performing Arts (KFPA).

The concert takes place Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. at Southwest Community Church.

Now a familiar and well-loved event on the local arts calendar, The More the Merrier began as a way to encourage more collaborative performances ahead of the festival season.

According to organizer Bonita Wiens, the idea emerged several years ago in response to a national challenge encouraging music festivals to increase entries of duets, trios, and other group performances.

“The point was to encourage people to get duets and trios together,” Wiens said. “It gave performers an opportunity to try out those pieces before the festival and then enter them as well.”

Since its beginnings, the concert has remained rooted in that original goal while growing into a relaxed, community-focused fundraiser. While the number of performances has stayed fairly consistent over the years, the audience turnout has not wavered.

Wiens said the venue is consistently filled, with every seat taken. “The church is always jam-packed, people really seem to like it.”

Part of the draw is the welcoming, low-pressure atmosphere. Performers range from young children to seniors, and participants are not required to be taking formal lessons or be registered in the festival. The emphasis is on participation, collaboration, and enjoyment rather than competition.

The concert features a wide range of performances, something Wiens says is intentional. Audiences can expect piano duets and ensembles, vocal duets and trios, string quartets, guitar and flute duets, harp, brass, and even dance numbers.

While speech arts have yet to be represented, the overall mix continues to expand. Dance, which was not part of the event in its early years, is now growing, with two dance groups registered for the upcoming concert.

“Variety makes it fun,” Wiens said. “It also introduces people to things they might not normally see. Someone who always goes to piano or voice can discover guitar, dance, or other instruments.”

Another highlight for families is the popular cakewalk, a tradition that has become a favourite among younger attendees. With music, numbered spots around the sanctuary, and help from festival ambassadors, the activity adds to the festive feel of the afternoon.

All proceeds from the concert go directly to the Kamloops Festival of the Performing Arts, supporting its general operations and helping sustain the non-profit festival.

Looking ahead, Wiens hopes to see even more diversity in future performances, particularly from band students and less-represented instruments. For now, she says the strength of The More the Merrier lies in its simplicity.

“It’s fun, it’s casual, and there’s no pressure,” Wiens said. “People look forward to it.”

Submissions for performers are now open, and community members are invited to attend, support local talent, and enjoy an afternoon that celebrates collaboration, creativity, and giving back.