I stood by the highway under bright blue morning skies, a coffee cup in one hand, and sticking my thumb out at passing cars with the other. It was early and the heat had not yet settled into the day. At my feet was my pack and my laptop case, and propped up against both was my quickly created sign that simply read “Shambhala.” Two cars passed me, one honked. A third car pulled over. “I’m passing that way, “ the woman in the car declared; and so started my pilgrimage to the 2010 Shambhala Music Festival.

My driver was not going to the Festival but she knew all about it. I doubt anyone who lives in the Kootenays isn’t aware that a grand Music Festival is happening this weekend bringing an influx of thousands of welcome visitors into the region. While my driver was not a fan of electronic music she positively spoke of the influence the festival had for the local business community. She dropped me off at the Salmo River Bridge and wished me a “Good Time.”

A line had formed down the highway and into the Salmo River Ranch Road. I was greeted by a gentleman with a radio, a yellow vest and a smile who promised he could easily get me a ride to the festival site, 8 KM away. True to his word I was soon climbing into the back of an SUV, stacked full of supplies, some of which had to be moved to make room for me. Two young gentlemen from Calgary, who had been driving since 4 am, were more than happy to offer me a ride. They had made very good time on their own pilgrimage to their very first Shambhala and their excitement and anticipation was very palatable in their presence. Electronic music, the very same they would enjoy this weekend, blared from their sound system. The remaining kilometers were slow and dusty along a rocky narrow road and added to the effect of being on a journey to a unique and special destination.

Arriving at the “Mill Gate”, called such because for the rest of the year the building is a working lumber mill, we are greeted by more volunteers in yellow vests and despite the heat, offered warm smiles. Tickets are scanned for authenticity, part of the well renown professionalism that guests to Shambhala are accustomed to. I thank my chauffeurs for the ride and I am warmly invited to party with them if we are so privileged to cross paths again. Community being a big part of the festival, I can tell their offer is genuine and wish them both a great experience. As I make my way down the hot dusty road I see the lines of cars and RVs forming up in the pasture. Tents are being erected and from time to time someone will cry out or howl. This begins a cascade of cries and howls that move through the crowd, like a wave, moving farther away and touching every and any place the sound is heard. It has become a trade mark for the festival, the sharing of the excitement and anticipation for what is to be the ultimate weekend of fun and dance.

I make my way through a tent village, seeing license plates from Ontario, Washington, Oregon, Alberta and of course British Columbia. Truly, many have made this pilgrimage and many have traveled for far longer and farther than I. Everywhere I look, I see smiles and am greeted warmly and I am given the sense that we are family.

At midday the heat has lowered itself onto the site, yet the smiles persist as do laughs and warm greetings from complete strangers. It is truly a feeling of community that surrounds every inch of the site which is buzzing with anticipation. Many are wearing unique and flattering costumes and when music is played, dance often accompanies it. The trademark wave of cheers continues periodically moving through the camp; up and down the valley. It is awesome to experience first hand.

The artisans are putting the finishing touches on their shops while eager shoppers peruse their many, unique and finely crafted wares. Many local artists are showcased among the craft vendors and I look forward to visiting and talking with them in depth as the festival goes forward. It is also hard not to notice the delicious aromas coming from the various food vendors, many of whom are local businesses also. While I am merely observing at this point, I am looking forward to sampling their unique and tasty offerings.

Late afternoon and those who haven’t yet are surely now drawn to the beach and the cool waters of the Salmo River. Some have even set up chairs right in the water. It is a relaxing moment for people to reacquaint with old friend, make new ones and talk about the excitement coming in the next few days. It is a good opportunity to strategically plan as there is so much to partake in something exciting could easily be missed.

Sound Check

Night comes to Shambhala but the sounds of excitement and merriment persist. In the sky there are occasional flashes of laser lights and a excited roar rises from the crowd and camps when one of the stages unexpectedly comes to life. As the stage crews test their equipment, we are treated to crystal clear music, which even at a distance inspires dance and fun. Many are walking around wearing their dance regalia or shopping at the vendors for something new to wear or perhaps getting a tight flashy haircut. People are still arriving into the night; in past years the gates closed at midnight but this year guests will be welcomed into the morning hours with warm smiles and cheers from a happy crowd filled with anticipation.

Daniel

8 KM to go