October 2023 - Newsletter

The Fort St. James Sled Dog Association had a successful event in 2023 boasting a record 16 teams participating in the long-distance races at the Caledonia Classic Sled Dog Races.

Dog mushing reflects and compliments the historic nature that Fort St. James is proud to present and promote. The Caledonia Classic is the only competitive race offered in British Columbia. In addition, the 200-mile distance race is only one of three 200-mile qualifying races to be held completely within Canada.

The even attracts participants and visitors from across Canada and worldwide – with people attending from the Yukon and Australia.

Held annually in February, the Caledonia Classic Sled Dog Races received $2,500 in funding from Northern Development through its Fabulous Festivals and Events program.

The Mile Zero Cruisers Car Club out of Dawson Creek held its 27^th annual summer cruise July 7 to 9.

This popular weekend event features a show and shine, in-town cruise, burnout competition, kids’ entertainment and an awards night. The burnout competition attracted approximately 50 vehicles and over 2,000 spectators, with an estimated 5,000 spectators over the entire weekend.

This event has become a cherished tradition, drawing car enthusiasts and families from all around to celebrate classic automobiles and the spirit of the open road. This event is not just a treat for automobile aficionados, but also a visual spectacle for everyone to enjoy. Spectators line the streets to admire the impressive lineup of vehicles, taking in the craftsmanship and nostalgia associated with these automotive icons.

Northern Development has supported the Summer Cruise through its Fabulous Festivals and Events program since 2016.

The 7th annual Skeena Valley Country Music Festival in August featured musicians from the northwest to showcase their talents. For the 2023 event, the festival featured eight different bands and an Elvis impersonator. The intent of the festival is to bring the outlying communities together in a family gathering to celebrate music and the Metis culture.

In addition to the music and entertainment, the festival actively engages with the local community, supporting regional businesses, artisans, and charitable organizations. It serves as a platform for local talent and provides a space for cultural exchange, further strengthening the ties that bind the community together. The Skeena Valley Country Music Festival is not just a celebration of music; it’s a celebration of the rich cultural tapestry and natural splendor of the Skeena Valley, making it a memorable experience for all who attend.

Since 2016, Northern Development has supported the Skeena Valley Country Music Festival through the Fabulous Festivals and Events program.

The Robson Valley Music Festival is a three-day family-oriented festival with artists of all disciplines from B.C., Canada and the world.

Located in the heart of Dunster B.C., the site is spread out over 2.5 km of Fraser River frontage nestled in the Rockies and Caribou Mountains.  Attendance is limited to 1,000, creating an experience of community for all attendees.   The grassroots festival brings in a diverse group of people of all ages and walks of life to enjoy five stages, interactive workshops in music, dance, visual arts, wellness and sustainability.  The children’s area has climbing activities, workshops, a pirate ship sandbox and a stage for family programming. 

Highlights from the 2023 festival included renowned Bollywood dancer Karima Essa, the K’hastan Drummers and L’heidli Tenneh Elder Michael Bozoki kicking off the event with a welcoming ceremony.

Northern Development supported the Robson Valley Music Festival with a $2,500 grant through the Fabulous Festivals and Events program.