39 Days of July 2025

Artistic Director’s Message

13 and 39 are magical numbers when put together’

13 – 3 day festivals in a row add up to 39 days, just sayin’

 Here we are for the 13th time bringing you 39 days in a row of funtastic entertainment daily - wow

I was just a young pup at 61 when I thought this would be a great idea and you know what? It really is, but it does take its toll, that is why I like to remind everyone to take in as much of this festival as you can cause there is no guarantee of the longevity of a vision such as this

 That being said, as I write this I know in a few short hours I will put it all to rest and it goes to the printer and the 5 month long journey of playing with the magic required to pull this thang together is over for another year – now, we must all await to see how this will manifest, that what’s been put on paper.

I was able to fill up the City Square Stage schedule rather quickly this year, actually had to cancel two shows due to the workload burnout that can happen when doing 356 shows in 39 days ( only 38 shows in 33 days in city square). So many concerts that might have been in the square ended up on the VITALS Stage in Charles Hoey Memorial Park (aka: train station park / across from the Duncan Garage Cafe )  Yes, the Steadies are back this year and they will be in the park, where you can dance on the grass instead of pavement. As a matter of fact, there are many other acts on the VITALS Stage this year that will also request such audience participation.

    As always, you might recognize some of the performers that have been here before that are now alongside quite a few new ones you really should take note of.

    In an attempt to keep the festival somewhat fresh I have added a few new thangs:                                                                                       

Centennial Park Kid’s Stage 2025-musical treats for the young ones sponsored by Red Balloon Toyshop -every Wednesday at 11am in Centennial Park during the 39 Days of July 2025 the DCFS presents a ½ hour concert for the under 9 crowd on the little mound past the Lion’s Club Water Park

 Dress Rehearsal Alumni-various musicians who frequent the Dress Rehearsal Tuesdays at the Duncan Showroom for years will now have festival stage time under their belts- we have seen their due  diligence and progress and this is kinda like a reward

 Songwriters in the Round – big in Nashville over the years, events where 3 or more songwriters are on stage trading off songs along with great banter between songs for sure – let us know how you like the idea

 Sunday Evening Blues in City Square – at 8:30pm, some concerts will be danceable, some for the listening audiences but one thang for sure, they will all be stellar experiences

 Jaq’s on Queens – under new ownership, expect a new lease on nite life in downtown Duncan - joining in on the festivities this year, after playing in the park, bands that we feel should have access to  broader and younger audience will be given that chance – with a dance floor - various non-alcohol beers and the kitchen is open till 11pm-( some of the best fries in town)

 Wine Down Wednesdays in August Festival -not only does it let you down gently from 39 days in a row of entertainment, we will be showcasing only valley entertainers and mostly original music this year – a festival highlighting our valley artists and their original tunes- here we go

 TAP -we will have TAP this year for those who don’t carry cash, upon request a much younger person than I will be designated each evening to perform the TAP process for you

 A MESSAGE FROM

MAYOR MICHELLE STAPLES

On behalf of the City of Duncan, welcome to the 39 Days of July!

 Every summer, downtown Duncan comes alive with music, laughter, and the unmistakable feeling that something special is happening. Locals, visitors, and passersby all find themselves swept up in the rhythm—dancing in the streets, lounging in the park, and discovering the incredible shops, flavours, and people that make this city shine.

 The 39 Days of July isn’t just a festival—it’s a celebration of creativity, connection, and everything that calls us to the beautiful Cowichan Valley.

 This year’s lineup promises more of what we all love: soulful sounds, foot-stomping beats, and moments that bring summer to life.

 So come join us. Whether it’s your first visit or your thirty-ninth, 39 Days of July proves—again and again—that the City of Duncan is, indeed, a rather FUN place to be.