South Asian sounds and culture will be celebrated for a 20th year in Surrey and Vancouver during the annual 5X Fest, originally launched in 2004 as Vancouver International Bhangra Celebration (VIBC).
Now in its 8th year as 5X, the festival brings June events to a few venues including Surrey Civic Plaza, where another free-admission Blockparty is planned Saturday, June 14 as "the ultimate celebration of Panjabi music and culture."
From 4 to 9 p.m., the concert will feature sets by Talwiinder, Gminxr and guests, G. Sidhu, Panjabi Hit Squad, Sahil Cheema, MTOORAY and hosts Parmvsthewrld and Neeti Sharma, along with food trucks, vendors, Corona Beer Garden (19+) and an Uber-sponsored VIP area ($100 a ticket).
The Blockparty features Talwiinder in his debut B.C. performance, a showcase set by Gminxr, G Sidhu’s first-ever 5X appearance, rising local star Sahil Cheema, and "electrifying DJ sets from the viral UK duo Panjabi Hit Squad and fan-favourite MTooray," according to a post on 5xfest.com.
5X, a non-profit arts organization, is considered "the largest Panjabi arts organization in Canada," the website boasts. "For over 20 years, we've sparked movements, curated events and amplified hundreds of artists from our community — reshaping the future of Panjabi arts in Canada."
This year's 5X Fest launches June 7 with an invite-only party in Vancouver.
Up next is 5X Access, presented by 91 North Records at Marcon's Surrey Pavilion (home of Nemesis coffee, 13380 102A Ave.) on Thursday, June 12, an evening showcase "spotlighting Surrey’s rising stars" including MRII, Kyle Bhawan and Raediamendz.
Two days later, the festival's Blockparty is followed by a 5X Afterparty at a secret location with DJ music by Kokaheena, Asad Khan (formerly Khanvict) and Bobby Kang, 10 p.m. start.
There's also a 5X Art Party happening at Vancouver's Beaumont Studios on the night of June 13.
New this year is a 5X All-Access Pass ($150, 19+ only) for admission to the Art Party, Blockparty VIP and Afterparty, plus a commemorative festival T-shirt.
