The Leading Acts
Main Line Up

Previous Shows
Our History
Bill (Billyboy) Lucas was the Chair of the Nanaimo Blues Society. His passion for the blues began in the late 1960’s, when in his teens he saw blues greats Buddy Guy, Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf and John Mayall. In 2007 while Lucas was watching local Maple award-winning blues artist David Gogo perform, a lightbulb appeared over Lucas’ head, causing him to ask, “Why not have a blues festival?
Bill let the idea bubble for a year or so and asked a few questions around town (no one said no) and the Nanaimo Summertime Blues Festival was born.

Check out our latest videos!
Trending Media
Testimonials
There is nothing I can say other than how amazing this blues society is! They put on one of the best boutique blues festivals in Canada, and I am proud to have been a part of it on more than a few occasions. God bless these hard working blues loving people in Nanaimo!
Harpdog Brown, Vancouver
2017 Nanaimo Blues Festival was the line up of the year. An over the top music event like no other on the West Coast of Canada not to mention the planet. Simply not to be missed.
Dave Mathews, Gibsons
This Festival is a must-see. Excellent performers in a beautiful setting. There’s such a great vibe here. Highly recommended.
Fran Davis, Alberta
This is a great festival, good location, great bands and friendly people.
Bob McLeod, Campbell River
See What's Been Announced!
Latest News
Summertime Blues 2019 in action
2019 Artists
The Best Gig in the World!
It's Coming
It'll be here before you know it!