The Peace Arts Festival returns to Dawson Creek this week, offering a full lineup of performances and workshops from May 11 to May 17, 2026. Organized by the Kiwanis Performing Arts Centre, the annual event provides residents and visitors with a variety of ways to engage with the arts across several locations in the community.
Now in its 29th year, the festival originated in 1998 as the Peace River South Festival of the Arts. It serves as a platform for students and emerging performers to showcase their talents in dance, instrumental music, vocal music, and speech. Participants receive feedback from professional adjudicators throughout the week, helping to support and celebrate the performing arts in the region.
The 2026 program includes a wide range of activities such as swing dancing lessons with the Mile Zero Jitterbugs, pottery workshops with Dori Braun, and mural painting sessions led by Caily Oldershaw. Other highlights include paint nights, open mic events, a youth jam, and concert performances by the Vice Jesters. Registration fees for participants range from $6 to $15, depending on the performance category.
The Peace Arts Festival is coordinated by the Kiwanis Performing Arts Centre, which has served as a local hub for arts and community events since 1986. Those interested in learning more about the event or viewing the full schedule can contact the centre at 250-782-9325 or by email at [email protected].
