A forum to learn more about Boonstock Music and Arts Festival from the organizers will take place on July 8.
Originally scheduled for June 17, the Chamber of Commerce issued a press release that the open forum that it had to be postponed due to circumstances beyond their control.
The July 8 meeting will give the public an opportunity to review the traffic and safety plans, learn about the economics behind music festivals and ask questions. Organizers, including president Colin Kobza, will also provide information about how local business can tap into the economic impact they believe the festival will bring to Penticton.
From Aug. 1 to 3, 8,500 ticket holders and more than 50 bands and DJs will come together in a four-day celebration of arts and music in the South Okanagan on Penticton Indian Band locatee lands. The festival has received support from the Penticton and Wine Country Chamber of Commerce and recently announced a community-based board of directors.
"Speaking on behalf of my fellow society board members, I am honoured to be working with Colin (Kobza) and his executive to bring this event to town," said Mark Ziebarth, chair of the Boonstock Entertainment and Arts Society. "Colin has vision and what he's creation will be a fantastic, long-term cultural and economic development cornerstone for the South Okanagan community."
The chamber said festivals of this kind throughout North America have created a booming business and many communities such as Squamish, Pemberton, Salmon Arm are well known for their festival sand the rejuvenating effect they have contributed to those communities tourism industries.
"The marketing benefits of this festival will be massive," said Campbell Watt, president of the chamber. "It is attracting a younger demographic, one that may be visiting Penticton for the first time. We have an opportunity to welcome them and turn them into repeat visitors."
The forum will take place at the Chamber of Commerce Board Room on the second floor of the B.C. Wine Info Centre on July 8 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. RSVPs are encouraged as seats are limited.