Kamloops is about to come alive with loads of laughter, music, acrobatics, and magic as the Kamloops Buskers Festival returns to Riverside Park from July 24–27. Now in its sixth year, this amazing celebration of street performance is bound to dazzle crowds with mainstage performers both local and international, dozens of musicians, food, and fun, designed to dazzle audiences of all ages.
This year Lucas Sweet is at the helm as lead organizer, working with the Kamloops Sports Council to carry on what has quickly become one of the city’s signature summer events. “Kamloops has a really supportive community,” said Sweet. “It appreciates the performers every year, and I think the people and the organizations who brought the festival here just wanted to offer something different, something unique, and most importantly, something free. It’s a way of giving back.”
Though the festival took a hiatus during the socially distanced COVID years, its return has been nothing short of fabulous. Attendance has grown steadily since its beginnings, with roughly 10,000 visitors expected this year over the four-day event.
“There’s something so special about being able to offer world-renowned performers to the public for free,” Sweet explained. “When I first heard about the festival, I didn’t expect it to be so spectacular. But after seeing who we’re booking — artists who travel the world, win awards, and put on incredible shows — I was blown away.”
The 2025 performer lineup promises something for everyone. Back by popular demand is last year’s People’s Choice winner, Zap Circus. They’ll be joined by the likes of soccer/dance/music performer Victor Rubilar, hooping sensation Molly Keczan, acrobatic marvels by Quinn Beasley, and so much more!
Coming out for the first time is international busking sensation Poncho Libre, an acrobatic performer from Mexico. Also from the international scene is a stunning Japanese duo, Heromacro. Both international performers come highly recommended from circuits all around the globe.
“We release a new performer announcement each week on the website,” Sweet said. “It builds excitement, and every name we reveal gets people more and more curious.”
In addition to the six scheduled mainstage shows spread across three stages, the festival will include a local focused artisan market with 10 to 15 vendors to peruse, a dedicated music stage featuring exclusively BC musicians, from up-and-comers to seasoned pros, and family-friendly features like face painting and a few “surprises up our sleeves,” hinted Sweet.
As always, the essence of busking remains at the heart of the festival. “Busking is performing for tips,” Sweet explained. “After each show, performers will pass the hat. We highly encourage people to participate; that’s how they make their money. Some are quite forward, especially the international acts, but that’s part of the fun.”
For those looking to be more involved, the festival is seeking volunteers. “It’s a pretty chill experience,” said Sweet. Volunteers help out with asking questions, supporting performers, and keeping things running smoothly. There’s a form on the website for anyone interested.”
This year, there will also be the introduction of two exciting new contests. There is a Photo Contest, where attendees can submit their best festival snapshots for a chance at prizes. And there will also be a Punch Card Contest, where visitors can collect stamps for attending all six mainstage shows, then submit their completed cards for a prize draw.
With so much to delight all the senses, Sweet hopes the Buskers Festival will continue to grow and evolve. “I’d say we’re 70 to 80 percent of the way there,” he said. “There’s still another level we can reach. My goal is to make this something Kamloops is known for across the country and even internationally.”
For full performer bios, schedule updates, volunteer sign-up, and the contest rules, please check out the official website at www.kamloopsbuskers.com. And don’t forget your sunscreen, water bottle, and a little change for the hat. See you at the park!