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Rockin’ River Country Music Festival: British Columbia's Top Country Music Gathering

It may have taken geology thousands of years to create the breathtaking natural features of the Nicola Valley, but it will only take you a two-hour drive east from Vancouver to Merritt, British Columbia, to enjoy it all.

 

Featuring a wealth of things to do, Merritt has established itself as one of the top getaway destinations in the region. With a range of natural features that span from grasslands to mountains, you’ll find the opportunity for almost any outdoor endeavor. Areas such as the Kane Valley Recreational Area are perfect for hiking, biking, photography or just exploring the unique landscape. If you're into watersports, this is the place for you. Nicola Lake and Nicola River are in close proximity to town and offer you the chance to go fishing, boating, sailing, sunbathing, waterskiing and more. You’ll also find some great golf courses in Merritt. From the Dick Zokol-designed Sagebrush, to multiple nine hole links-style courses, there is something for every level of play here. To soak in all that Merritt has to offer, we suggest you visit during one of the great community events like the Rockin’ River Country Music Festival.

 

After six highly successful years, the staff and planners of the Rockin’ River Country Music Festival are primed and ready for their seventh year. With an expected crowd of over 24,000 people, the festival is ready for their biggest year to date. Great for everyone from singles to families, this festival has a lot going on. You’ll love the variety of country music acts performing this year, as well as various fun games like Human Foosball. Another major draw to this festival is the outdoor environment. A river runs right through the concert grounds, providing an excellent way to cool off and relax. You’ll find a variety of food choices from various vendors, and if you're looking for the ultimate experience try out the exclusive Party Patios. If you love country music and the outdoors, this is the ultimate event for you. ResortsandLodges.com got the chance to interview Brittia Thompson, representative for the Rockin’ River Country Music Festival, to talk all about this great event.

 

RAL: Tell me about the event.

BT: We are excited for the 7th year of the Rockin’ River Country Music Festival. This is the 2nd festival in the Merritt location. Last year we had a great event and our attendance was just shy of 24,000 people. The demographic of our crowd varies quite a bit. Ages range from 22 to 54, and the crowd includes families, couples, and (of course) singles looking for love.

 

RAL: What makes this event unique?

BT: Location, Location, Location! Not many other festival sites have a river that runs right through the heart and the natural landscape is to die for. This is a country music event unlike any other.

 

RAL: Take me through the activities of a typical day at the event.

BT: New for this year is the entertaining Air Jump. Human Foosball will be returning this year as well as bull riding, and we’ll be doing some shows right on the river during the day so festival-goers don’t need to leave the river. Floating in the water is a perfect activity for any age and don't forget the four days of incredible music.

 

RAL: What can an attendee expect to find for local lodging?

BT: We have some great lodging options in Merritt, but it is a small town and hotels are at a premium, if not already sold out. Camping is the accommodation of choice for most attendees.

 

RAL: Is there maybe one place in particular that guests have been flocking to since the event started?

BT: The river itself is one of the top attractions in the area. Combine that with our festival and you have a pretty special environment. Just think, you have thousands of people in the river, playing music, dancing and generally having a blast. It’s a can't-miss experience for any lover of country music.

 

RAL: Does this drive business to your local economy?

BT: Yes, absolutely! We’re the largest event the community sees. All the extra people visiting the community are spending money all over town at most of our establishments. Everyone locally looks forward to this time of year.

 

RAL: Does the event support a special cause in the community?

BT: We have several charities we work with. We’ve donated to the local food bank and rotary club in the past. We’ve also worked with the technical school to help build our cabins and offer training to students on carpentry

 

RAL: Does lodging hit max occupancy during the event?

BT: While the hotels might fill up, we have over a 1,000 acres of camping area available. There is no need to worry about camping selling out just yet. However the reserved spots along the river sell out very quickly.

 

RAL: Why should people come to your event?

BT: Rockin’ River Music Festival has established a reputation as the ultimate festival experience. Everyone is a friend and the sense of community is a brilliant display of humanity at its best. It’s about life in that moment!

 

For more information about the Rockin’ River Country Music Festival, please visit their website.