Khatsahlano 2024 - the beloved yearly music festival in our community.

By Keir Nicoll

During a sunny Saturday in Vancouver, there's no other event quite like the "Khatsahlano Street Fest" which offers fantastic local music and food.

Chase the Bear performed at Burrard Stage at 1:30, showcasing their high-energy classic rock style with a lead singer, two guitarists, a bassist, and a singing drummer. Known for their thundering sound, they played hits like “Five More Minutes” and “Going Home,” heating up the already scorching day! Kaya Ko took the Maple Stage at 2, serenading the crowd with folksy tunes that resonated deeply.

La Lune hit the Vine Stage at 3, delivering a grunge-inspired performance reminiscent of iconic bands like Weezer, the Stone Roses, the Smashing Pumpkins, and Sonic Youth. Their drummer even sported a Slint shirt, adding to the wall of sound feedback effect.

Obembe brought his African family rock steady reggaeton to the Balsam Stage at 3:30, spreading positive vibes and infectious energy with his big voice and DJ-produced vocals. Lokita closed out the Yew Stage at 4:30, infusing Jamaican vibes into her Erykah Badu-esque performance, with DJ Bunny mixing warm beats for her tribe to groove to. She even performed “Lick 'A Honey” in a dubbsteppy dancehall style.

Bend Sinister performed at 5:30 on the Burrard Stage, showcasing their melodic prog rock sound with a touch of classic rock. The leadman and bass player brought an energetic and bombastic performance to the stage. NADUH took the stage at 6:30, featuring 5 women and a DJ who gave off a Spice Girls vibe. Their personal stories and soulful beats resonated with the audience. Wooden Horsemen closed the night at 7:30 on the Balsam Stage, delivering a Calexico-inspired sound with horns and a Canadiana feel. Their heavy-hard-rock edge had the crowd wildly dancing. The entire day was a success, with a mix of established and emerging Vancouver talent gracing the stage.

The event always delivers a magical and delightful experience, blending new and old sounds for a unique musical celebration.