2024 DCFS President’s Message

Having turned the corner into June as I write my message, I stand with gratitude and hope for this year’s festival season in Downtown Duncan. I have seen my friend John Falkner toil through major surgery and recovery, all the while maintaining and building an incredible momentum towards this year’s 39 Days of July. I have seen my friend Jeff Leggat, our Grande Parade Marshall, bring positivity, enthusiasm and a true sense of fun to the planning of the 2024 Grand Parade in Downtown Duncan for Saturday July 13th.

This is a year that we are seeing so much changing, shifting, building and uncertainty in our charming and wonderful Downtown Core. The 39 Days of July feels like it is so needed, more than ever, to bring the crowds, liven the streets with music and culture and bring those connections and reconnections that define us ‘As Community’ in our urban center.

The planning that goes into this summertime experience and the work and passion and dedication is truly humbling to bear witness to. I see the resolve, talent and kindness of the ‘world’s greatest sound engineer Dr. Ted Cadillac (my opinion) and it’s brings a great sense of pride that we do live in a ‘rather fun place to be.’

 Let’s all come together and support one another, support the artists and musicians. Let’s support the community involved in making our Parade so memorable and galvanizing and incredible each year. I am honoured to have my part and look forward to seeing so many in the spirit of reconnection and cultural uplift this summer.

Sincerely, Jeff Downie Duncan Cowichan Festival Society President