Salty Hearts Music Festival (May 1/2 2026) · Festival & Space Maker Network

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Salty Hearts Music Festival (May 1/2 2026)

(Wanted to throw this one to the network for feedback)

Let's talk about Salty, coming up on May 1–2.

Last year, we braved one of Bamfield’s biggest early spring storms in March and still delivered an amazing event that the locals and many enjoyed. We have had requests locally to do it again.

Yes, we had a few hiccups—like that hotel hot water situation and some production issues due to weather and fatigue—but in the end, everyone had a fantastic time.

Last year, as a first-year festival, we ended up in the red financially. We want to avoid that this year. That’s part of the reason we’ve shifted the date from mid-March to May. It’s a significant change in timing, and we’re hoping it makes a big difference. Ultimately, the event’s viability really depends on about 60–70% of attendees being up for camping at Pachena Bay. May 1–2 is still in the shoulder season, so camping and rental costs are much lower than during Pachena.

A few thoughts we’ve been having about what contributed to the difficulty in attendance:

The time of year was brutal. The weather was nasty, so no last min fomo sales
Lots of local accommodations weren’t available due to it being too early
Spring break and it being 19plus
We focused on live music more (due to being in the middle of Bamfield with the main stage and wanting to design an event more akin to Woodstove or Song & Surf)

The changes (for those who were there) would be:

Way better time of year
Triple the production down at Pachena and making the campsite a much bigger focus with lots to do
Bringing in a bit more electronic music to the campsite and throughout
Opening up the event to all ages

I’d love to hear your feedback and thoughts on how to make this year’s edition stronger and more sustainable. Let’s make it happen.

Cheers,

Ben

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