The now annual Flats Fest is returning in early September to grow the community spirit in the 'South Flats' neighbourhood.
The area along the border of Strathcona and Mount Pleasant is home to an incoming SkyTrain station, an architecturally unique coffee shop, and the main Emily Carr University campus, which is where Flats Fest is taking place on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025.
The fest will have two stages of live music and a DJ stage, with local indie band Yukon Blonde headlining the main stage at 8 p.m. Also playing throughout the day will be Pony Gold, Adam Robert Thomas, Surf Hat, and others.
Given the local high-tech companies in the area, Flats Fest will have an innovation zone with groups like EA, the Centre for Digital Media, and Buffalo Buffalo.
And, given the locale, there's also going to be a student marketplace with artwork and handmade items from students at Emily Carr and the Centre for Digital Media.
There will also be some of the usual Vancouver festival areas: an artisan market, food trucks (Planted Love, WakWak Burger, Taco Nori, among others), and a beer garden (though the whole festival area will be licensed. There'll be a kids' area with activities and performers, including a dance battle and musical scientist (at different times).
Hosted by Low Tide Properties, one of the real estate companies owned by local billionaire Chip Wilson, the community event will also have booths set up by local developers PCI about future plans for the area.
Flats Fest 2025
When: Saturday, Sept. 6, from noon to 9 p.m.
Where: 565 Great Northern Way
Cost: Free
