As summer begins to wind down, the city of Victoria is preparing for the grand finale of the season: the return of Rifflandia Festival.
This year, from September 13th to 15th, the Matullia Lands at Rock Bay will come alive with music, art, and community, marking the festival’s latest evolution and its enduring status as a cornerstone of Victoria’s cultural identity.
Rifflandia began in 2008, a modest music and arts festival with a big vision. Over the years, it has blossomed into one of Western Canada’s longest-running and most beloved large-scale festivals.
From hosting early performances by emerging artists to attracting global superstars, Rifflandia has grown in both size and reputation, always staying true to its mission of fostering a diverse and creative community.
The festival has become more than just a series of concerts; it’s an event that reflects the essence of Victoria itself. A city known for its rich arts scene, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant community spirit, Victoria has found a perfect partner in Rifflandia, which showcases the best the city has to offer—both on and off the stage.
A New Chapter at Matullia Lands
This year marks a significant milestone for Rifflandia with the festival’s relocation to the Matullia Lands at Rock Bay.
Back in February, Rifflandia’s President and CEO, Nick Blasko announced that the festival would be changing the way it’s been operating over the past several years.
The most recent renditions of Rifflandia have featured two venues, The Park at Royal Athletic Park and Electric Avenue which was located in part on Matullia Lands in Rock Bay and in the ‘backyard’ of Phillips Brewing Company.
In 2023, the festival was even stretched out over two separate weekends. This year, the festival will only be held on one weekend and at just one location.
“We are honoured to work alongside the team at Matullia to bring this new vision and multi-year plan to life,” said Blasko.
“For the past 17 years, Rifflandia has served a diverse and creative music-forward community, and throughout that time we have always maintained a spirit of reinvention. Innovation is what drives us as we continue to present the best live music experiences in Victoria.”
Rifflandia signed a multi-year deal with Matullia Holdings, so festival-goers can expect this to be a near-permanent move for the festival.
The Matullia Lands at Rock Bay are operated by Matullia Holdings LP which is a partnership between Esquimalt Nation and Songhees Nation, both part of the Coast Salish family and descendants of the Lekwungen people.
The new site, with its expansive grounds and picturesque setting, promises to take the festival experience to new heights. Featuring four stages, including the ever-popular Dome, and an array of attractions like Kidlandia and Lafflandia, this year’s festival is set to be the ultimate end-of-summer party.
The move to Matullia Lands isn’t just about a change of scenery; it’s a reflection of the festival’s ongoing evolution. The expanded dance dome, the return of the iconic Phillips Stage, and the introduction of new features like The Pods and Side Stage Viewing all speak to Rifflandia’s commitment to innovation and its desire to create a festival experience that is as dynamic as the community it serves.
View this post on Instagram
While Rifflandia continues to draw big-name acts like TLC, Feist, and Ja Rule, it has never lost sight of its roots. The festival remains deeply committed to supporting local businesses and artists, ensuring that the spotlight is not only on international stars but also on the homegrown talent and creative enterprises that make Victoria unique.
Festival-goers can indulge in a variety of local craft beverages, explore vendors offering handmade goods, and enjoy cuisine that highlights the best of West Coast flavours.
This dedication to localism is a testament to Rifflandia’s role as more than just a music festival; it’s a celebration of the community and a platform for showcasing the creativity that thrives on Vancouver Island.
One of the most exciting aspects of Rifflandia 2024 is the expansion of Kidlandia, presented in partnership with St. Margaret’s School.
See also:
- 13 things you should know about this year’s Rifflandia Festival
- Comedy returns to Rifflandia this year with renowned performers taking the stage
- Rifflandia releases official festival playlist that features all this year’s performers
- ‘A spirit of reinvention’: Rifflandia announces big change to this year’s festival
- Rifflandia announces Ja Rule and REZZ to headline Friday’s lineup
- Feist announced to headline final day of Rifflandia as full lineup released
With an instrument petting zoo, arts and crafts activities, and a space designed to inspire even the youngest festival-goers, Kidlandia ensures that Rifflandia is a festival for all ages.
This family-friendly focus is a reflection of Victoria’s community-oriented spirit, making Rifflandia not just an event for music lovers but a gathering for families and friends to enjoy together.
As Rifflandia prepares to open its gates for another year, it’s clear that the festival has become much more than a musical event. It’s a reflection of Victoria’s evolving cultural landscape, a symbol of the city’s creativity, and a celebration of the community that calls this beautiful place home.
Whether you’re a long-time attendee or a first-time visitor, Rifflandia 2024 offers a chance to experience the vibrant energy of Victoria, to connect with fellow music lovers, and to be part of a tradition that has become a defining element of the city’s identity.
As the beats of Rifflandia echo through the Matullia Lands, they carry with them the story of a festival—and a city—that continues to grow, innovate, and inspire.
View this post on Instagram
Rifflandia 2024
- Where: Matullia Lands at Rock Bay
- When: September 13th to 15th
- Tickets: Available online
