Live music, local talent, and community spirit
Steinbach’s Summer in the City festival returns next weekend, and music lovers can look forward to incredible live performances, community camaraderie, and the vibrant energy that has become the hallmark of this beloved event.
As Executive Director of the Steinbach Arts Council, David Klassen coordinates stage and production at Summer in the City. He says the festival’s mainstage area is the perfect blend of local talent and festival atmosphere.
“We always put together the best possible roster of local artists from the region and Manitoba,” Klassen says. “We love to feature our local artists, to showcase the talent that comes out of the Southeast and Manitoba. And then we get to celebrate with concerts that we don’t have to travel to — they’re right here, in our backyard.”
A weekend of music and memories
Throughout Friday and Saturday afternoons, festivalgoers can take in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere where they can stop by, grab a beverage, stay cool in the shade, and enjoy performances from the best local artists.
As the sun sets and the lights of the midway come alive, the mainstage transforms into a vibrant hub of evening concerts, featuring local artists as openers for headliners that bring out big crowds and big energy.
“These concerts are happening here, and we can experience them here as a community,” Klassen says. “It’s an awesome opportunity to engage close to home and be part of an amazing party.”
A unique experience
Each evening brings its own vibe. From the high-energy tribute shows to more intimate performances, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re soaking it in from the bleachers, dancing in the crowd, or catching up with neighbours you haven’t seen all year.
“There’s nothing like that feeling of being in that space with the midway and the Ferris wheel and the music and the delicious aromas from the food trucks – it makes this festival so fantastically unique,” Klassen says. “There really is something for everybody.”
More than a festival
For Klassen, Summer in the City is about more than the music – it’s about community. He says it’s a special chance to come together and celebrate what makes Steinbach and southeastern Manitoba such a vibrant place to live.
“We bring people together. Our entire city comes together,” he says. “When you buy that ticket and you come into the mainstage area, you feel the heartbeat of a community like ours.”
“We’re growing but we still have that small town community spirit. We still connect with one another, and we’re excited to see people walking on Main Street, bringing our kids to the bouncy castles, and enjoying the festival together. That’s something special about our city.”
Join the celebration
With Summer in the City kicking off this Friday, Klassen says that now is the perfect time to make plans, get your tickets, and join the celebration.
“We have short summers here, so we have to take advantage of every minute we have outside,” he says. “And I think we do a great job of creating that opportunity for people.” See performance schedules and get your tickets now, at summerinthecity.ca!