Big Sugar headlines Richmond Canada Day in Steveston

Looking for something to do on July long weekend? How does rocking out to a free Roots Rock Raggae concert with Canadian band Big Sugar sound?

Frontman and guitarist Gordie Johnson and his bandmates are headlining the Richmond Canada Day in Steveston and set to play classic hits like “Diggin A Hole” and “Turn The Lights On,” as well tracks from their latest album, Eternity Now. The rest of the cast include long-time reggae bassist Garry Lowe, drummer Chris Colepaugh, percussionist Alex Johnson and newcomer Rey Arteaga on congas who specializes in Afro Cuban rhythms.

Big Sugar will also close out the show on the Bayview Main Stage at 9 p.m. with their unique rendition of O Canada, leading into a spectacular fireworks show over the waterfront. Throughout the day, visitors can expect other musical acts taking to seven other stages throughout Steveston Village such as Juno-nominated Terra Lightfoot and singer-songwriter Vince Vaccaro.

The live music is part of a larger street party featuring an artisan village, marketplace, food trucks and, for the first time, a Steveston Cup hockey zone where people can compete in friendly three-on-three competition accompanied by Vancouver Canucks mascot Fin. In addition, admission fees are waived for access to the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site, Steveston Interuban Tram and Steveston Museum.

No first of July would be complete without the famous Steveston Salmon Festival. The annual event originally started up in 1944 as a sports day fundraiser to raise money for a local playground, and has evolved into one of the biggest non-profit celebrations of its kind in the country. Known as “Canada’s biggest little birthday party,” the highlights are a huge parade and a salmon barbecue where 1,200 pounds of the tasty fish is grilled over open fire pits.

For more information and a complete schedule, go to www.richmondcanadaday.com.