Country music needs a certain type of background. Sure it can be played inside a stadium, inside a bar shop, but where does it really thrive? Well, outside for sure and next to that community feel. Something intimate, somewhere where people have arrived just to enjoy a casual lazy evening, maybe something like a farmer’s market. Now the most famous farmer’s market in the Lower mainland has got to be the Shipyard Night Market, which runs every Friday. And when that market is bringing in the Heels for this Friday the 12th, a all female country trio, that are known for their vocals, well there is no excuse not to be there with a local wine sample in your hand.
The market itself is a carousel of various performances, food samples, food trucks, various handmade crafts, and local musical talent. For city dwellers like me, it’s a nice pause before the weekend. Everything a human being needs to thrive is offered in maximum quantity, and this isn’t a coincidence In recent years, Vancouver has been intentionally easing regulations on pop-up culture to create these kind of gatherings. As Mayor Ken Sim put together ‘the Special Event Advisory Task Force whose purpose is to help identify key challenges and opportunities within the City’s existing permitting processes, and work alongside City staff to make it easier to host festivals and events in Vancouver.’
(Shipyards Night Market via 604now)
What makes this setting special is the collision of community and country. Instead of a ticketed show in a dark hall, this is spontaneous music out in the open. You are not sweaty and crammed. You are simply enjoying the music for as long as you want, as you watch eager audience members go out and dance. Young and old couples, enjoying each other’s company, holding each other one step back one step to the front, or a friend group, all of them holding hands, jumping for all the energizing parts, swaying for the breezy ones. The market is intentionally accessible and very inclusive, there’s no VIP sections, just curious passersby latching onto a chorus.
Mayor Sim’s office has launched a Special Event Advisory Task Force to streamline permits and support grassroots cultural events like this one, because in his words, “A vibrant and thriving events industry is a huge part of a livable, connected city.”
This is Vancouver’s unscripted, communal side at its best. You leave with the taste of sweet cider on your tongue, guitar echoes in your ears, and the realization that music, especially country, sounds best under open skies, surrounded by community.
Manraaj Grewal
manraajgrewal@gmail.com