As if the 2019 cancellation of Rock the Shores wasn’t enough, dad-rock fans across Vancouver Island and beyond will be disappointed yet again with the latest news of 2023’s music festival season.
Laketown Rock officially announced in February that the festival would likely be put on hiatus this year unless they were able to secure some high-calibre artists, quickly.
The festival takes place near Lake Cowichan at Laketown Ranch, which holds one of Western Canada’s largest outdoor stages as well as Laketown Rock’s sister festivals, Laketown Shakedown and Sunfest.
“With our best efforts for 2023, to date we have been unable to secure the quality of artists we feel is necessary to announce this year’s event,” wrote a Laketown Ranch spokesperson in the cancellation announcement on Instagram.
“Artist availability has made this a difficult year for securing talent; however, we are not closing the door. We will update you if and when things change.”
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In an email to Victoria Buzz, Laketown Ranch confirmed that Laketown Rock would not be returning for the 2023 season and staff will be focussing their efforts on Laketown Shakedown and Sunfest.
Of all three festivals, Laketown rock sold the least amount of tickets during 2022, even though their strong lineup boasted acts such as John Fogerty, Tom Cochrane, Big Sugar and Wide Mouth mason, among others.
“Laketown Rock may return, but is taking the 2023 season off,” added the festival spokesperson.
Laketown Shakedown announced their 2023 headliners in March, who include Shaggy, Aqua, Bif Naked and Third Eye Blind, among others.
This year’s Sunfest’s headliners will be Blake Shelton, Billy Currington, Lonestar and Laney Wilson.
Related:
- Shaggy and Third Eye Blind will headline this year’s Laketown Shakedown
- Blake Shelton set to headline Sunfest at Laketown Ranch in 2023
On Wednesday, April 12th, Laketown Shakedown announced they are looking for opening acts. They want local Vancouver Island bands and artists to have the opportunity to play the big stage opening for some of the world’s biggest stars.
Bands and artists who are interested in playing can apply online.
