Art & Music

The Sunshine Coast is home to one of the largest populations of artists per capita in Canada. With innovative style and welcoming hospitality, the Sunshine Coast rivals any area for top-notch art galleries, studios, museums, festivals, music events, and culture. The region's natural beauty inspires all creative mediums, including music, film, and theatre. 

Art Galleries, Studios, and Events

There are art galleries and studios in every community here on the Coast. The Coast Cultural Alliance has created the self-guided Purple Banner Tour to help visitors seek out these worthwhile spots. Look year-round for the Purple Banner flags, which local artists and galleries hang outside to signal they are open for visitors. Stop by one of our Visitor Centres to pick up a copy of the Purple Banner Tour brochure, which includes a map. 

The Sunshine Coast Art Crawl is a signature annual event in October. During this three-day event, over 150 galleries and studios open their doors to welcome art lovers from around the world. The ‘Crawl’ is a celebratory event and a great way to experience the outstanding creativity, skill, and talent of artists on the Coast. 

Other unique annual art events include the Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts, the qathet International Film Festival, the qathet Region Studio Tour, the Festival of the Performing Arts, the Sechelt Arts Festival, and the Texada Artist Studio Tour. There are smaller shows, exhibitions, and events almost daily year-round.

Music Festivals, Events, and Venues

Music is a celebrated art form here on the Sunshine Coast. You’ll often find live music at local restaurants, breweries, cideries, farmers’ markets, and other venues.

When it comes to music festivals, the Sunshine Coast shines. Interested in jazz? Check out the Townsite Jazz Festival and the Gibsons Landing Jazz Festival. Love the blues? Don’t miss the Texada Island Blues & Roots Festival and the Pender Harbour Blues Festival. Classical music lovers can enjoy orchestral concerts by the sea during PRISMA in Powell River. And you can also celebrate other musical styles at the Sunshine Music Festival and the International Choral Kathaumixw. 

Check out venues such as High Beam Dreams, the local Legions, theatres, and community halls for special music events, concerts, dances, and other fun performances.