The Skeena River Métis Community Association recently hosted a lively music festival that brought together community members for an evening of country music, connection, and creativity. The festival featured five talented country bands, each bringing their own style and energy to the stage. From the moment the first chords rang out, the event had a warm, welcoming atmosphere that reflected the values of community, culture, and celebration.
As part of the festival, I set up a tie-dye activity station near the front entrance. The bright colors and creative spirit of tie-dye offered a perfect complement to the music, creating a fun and interactive space where people could express themselves artistically. Over the course of the event, around a dozen participants stopped by, ranging from young children to adults. Each person brought their own imagination to the project, and it was inspiring to see families and friends gathered around the table, experimenting with colors and patterns. The finished pieces reflected the same vibrancy and individuality that the festival itself embodied.
Of course, no outdoor event is without its challenges. The biggest obstacle we faced was the weather. Rain showers rolled in during the afternoon, and strong gusts of wind threatened to topple tents and disrupt the activities. At one point, the wind nearly carried away the tie-dye tent. Thankfully, with the quick thinking and teamwork of nearby bystanders, we were able to secure it and keep the activity going. That moment of challenge turned into an unexpected highlight — a reminder of the resilience and cooperation that define community gatherings.
In the end, the tie-dye was a success. The combination of live country music, community engagement, and creative activities made for a unique experience that brought people together across generations. For me, the tie-dye station was more than just an activity; it was a way to contribute to the overall spirit of the event, giving participants something tangible to take home as a memory of the day.
What I learned through this project is that the strength of a community event comes not only from careful planning but also from the adaptability and collaboration of those involved. Whether it was organizing performers, creating spaces for art, or responding to unexpected weather, every part of the day reflected the importance of working together. I am grateful to the musicians, the volunteers, and the participants who all played a role in making this tie-dye a success. A big thank you for Small Neighborhood Grants for making my tie-dye event happen!
