The performance will open with a performance by Squamish group Chesha7 iy lha mens. The Dancers of Damelahamid will also perform their crowd-pleasing masked dance representing the themes of Spirit and Tradition. Both performances will incorporate costumes and music from local Indigenous groups such as the q̓ʷainƛ̓ən (Kwantlen), q̓ic̓əy̓ (Katzie), qəyqəyt (Qayqayt), and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam),
The Festival is an annual celebration hosted by the Dancers of Damelaahamid in partnership with the Museum of Anthropology at UBC and The Anvil Centre in New Westminster. The Dancers also invite different guest artists from both the Canadian and American sides of the Pacific Coast.
The weekend’s events include two ticketed matinee shows, public performances, and a youth program featuring performances for public school students and a workshop to develop artistic skills. Music and dance events like this often use tools like banner printing and lighting to help add atmosphere and highlight the work’s cultural origins. The Festival’s historic statement says:
“The Coastal Dance Festival provides an opportunity for Indigenous artists to share and support one another in a celebration of song and dance, bringing recognition to their unique and diverse cultures and showcasing their artistic strength.”
The 2026 Coastal Dance Festival will take place at the Anvil Centre in New Westminster on March 3.