Founded in 1978, the Vancouver Folk Music Festival is a summer tradition as one of the largest and longest-running music festivals in the city. While the inaugural festival took place in Stanley Park, the event has called Jericho Beach home since 1979. The spirited multistage outdoor festival has attracted numerous prominent performers over the decades, including Pete Seeger, Feist, and Sarah Harmer. We spoke with Executive Director Corbin Murdoch to learn more.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
The Vancouver Folk Music Festival (VFMF) is a three-day annual festival held at ʔəy̓alməxʷ (Jericho Beach Park), on the unceded territories of the sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh), and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nations.
VFMF is one of the largest, longest-running, and most well-attended music festivals in Metro Vancouver. It holds a unique and vital place within the local, regional, and national arts landscape as a community-driven celebration powered by a grassroots spirit and some of the best volunteers in the world. The Festival is internationally recognized for presenting exceptional and innovative folk and roots music—both traditional and contemporary—from around the globe.
What problem does it aim to solve?
VFMF believes that arts and culture should be central to the lives of all Vancouverites. We strive to present world-class music in a beautiful outdoor setting in a way that is accessible, affordable, and aligned with our core values of Artistic Excellence, Diversity and Inclusion, Environmental Stewardship, Social Justice, and Reconciliation.
When did you start/join it?
I joined the team in December 2025.
What made you want to get involved?
VFMF has always been central to my cultural life, both as a folk artist and as a Vancouverite. I first discovered the Festival as a teenager and have been involved in a variety of capacities ever since—as a volunteer, attendee, performer, and board member. Taking on the role of Executive Director feels like coming home. I’m proud to contribute to an organization and community that I love.
What was the situation like when you started?
It’s an exciting time for our Festival and organization. We survived both the pandemic and a near-collapse in 2023. While we’re still rebuilding from those challenging years, we’re moving forward with optimism. Next year, we’ll celebrate our 50th anniversary, and we’re using that milestone as an opportunity to imagine what the Festival might look like 50 years from now.
How has it changed since?
We’re gearing up for another incredible Festival this July. Our lineup has been announced, tickets are selling well, and excitement is building. Each year, dozens of seasonal staff and more than 900 volunteers help bring the Festival to life, so our headquarters are buzzing as summer approaches. We’re anticipating one of the strongest Festivals in recent memory.
What more needs to be done?
We need people to show up and get involved. VFMF has thrived for nearly half a century because of our extraordinary community of volunteers, donors, artists, and supporters who make the Festival their own and help shape its future. The more people participate and feel a sense of ownership, the stronger the Festival becomes. Whether it’s your first VFMF or your 49th, this Festival belongs to you!
How can our readers help?
There are many ways to get involved. You can purchase tickets, volunteer, make a donation, or subscribe to our newsletter. Learn more at www.vanfolkfest.ca.
Do you have any events coming up?
The 49th Annual Vancouver Folk Music Festival takes place July 17–19 at Jericho Beach Park. We invite everyone to join us for a weekend of exceptional music, community, and celebration on Vancouver’s waterfront.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
I’d like to give a shout-out to the Vancouver East Cultural Centre (The Cultch), where I got my very first job in the arts. It’s another community-minded arts organization doing outstanding work.
