Everything you need to know about Bass Coast festival's epic stages
One of B.C.’s hottest festivals returns to the Nicola Valley this weekend, and we’ve got the lowdown on all of the epic stages that you can dance to your heart’s content at this year.
Bass Coast returns to Merritt for its 17th year from July 11 to 14 with a mix of local and international electronic artists.
The popular boutique festival is built around four core stages, each with its own identity. From riverside dance floors to hidden gathering spots, each is shaped by intentional design and curated sound.
This year will also see the addition of the new stage, Somewhere, described as a fresh space for connection, music exploration, and music programming running from noon to 4 a.m.
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“Experience headliners in a more intimate setting, with main stage PK sound,” said Bass Coast in a release. “Think Cantina’s welcoming energy, scaled up, and surrounded by live murals, performance artists, underground club-inspired production and interactive art.”
Somewhere includes a new cocktail and mocktail bar, will host the J-Rod Invitational Arm Wrestling Championship, and features performers like Conducta, The Funk Hunters, G Jones and Main Phase.
Longtime fans of Bass Coast will also want to make time for Slay Bay, named initially during the festival’s early days in Squamish.
Slay Bay is an immersive stage environment designed by co-founder Liz Thomson that wraps 360 degrees around the dance floor, making partygoers feel like they’re part of the show with a stunning sail roof above.
By night, the stage comes alive with a full array of lights, lasers, and creative programming created by Beama Environments. Grab a mocktail or elevated cocktail at the Slay Bay bar, and listen to acts like Neffa-T, Justin Martin, and Ternion Sound.
Bass Coast
For a backcountry retreat during your Bass Coast stay, head to the Cabin Stage.
Created in tribute to backcountry snowboarding and the mountains that brought festival co-founders Andrea Graham and Liz Thomson together, the Cabin Stage is a musically versatile space. One moment you may hear funk and soul, the next you may be treated to techno and left-field bass.
Keep an eye and ear out for music talent like Bambounou and Sally C, Matrixxman, and Black Loops at the Cabin Stage. And yes, the prism can be rotated by hand.
Bass Coast
And when you need some downtime, head to The Dream Chamber, aka Slowtempo. Located alongside the river, away from the fast pace of the other stages, Slowtempo is the perfect space to unwind and recharge.
Daytime programming includes yoga, panel discussions, the Queer Ice Cream Social, and creative workshops that are designed to inspire. And in the evening, sets by artists like sweet Anomaly and The Silk Road shift into an ambient, downtempo energy.
For more information about Bass Coast and to purchase your last-minute tickets, visit their website.
Bass Coast Festival 2025
When: July 11 to 14, 2025
Where: Merritt, B.C.
With files from Megan Devlin
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