The Pemberton Barn Dance is back on Sept. 20—and once again, locals will need to win a lottery to snag tickets.
This year’s event features a lineup stacked with Sea to Sky talent: The Pemberton Project kicks things off at 7:45 p.m., followed by Sheri Ptolemy at 9:25 p.m., and local favourites Dakota Pearl closing out the night at 10 p.m. Liquor service will run from 7 p.m. to midnight.
The Pemberton Lions and Rotary Clubs said they’re keeping the lottery format to ensure fairness and prioritize access for local residents.
“We know ticket demand is high, and we want to give the whole community an equal chance to purchase,” organizers wrote in the event description. “This is why we have decided to continue with a lottery program for all general admin tickets.”
To enter the draw, you must live in Pemberton, Mount Currie, Birken or D’Arcy and be 19 or older. Duplicate entries will be disqualified, and proof of residence will be required to claim a ticket. The deadline to enter is Thursday, Aug. 14. Winners will be notified via email shortly after, with purchase instructions included.
The Barn Dance has become a fixture of the Village’s fall calendar, selling out quickly in past years.
The event originated in the mid-20th century as an informal gathering for local farmers and ranchers to celebrate the harvest’s end, according to the Pemberton Valley Lodge. It has since grown in both size and popularity, evolving into a more organized affair with live music and a range of local food and beverage offerings.
Proceeds from the event will go towards the Pemberton Lions and Rotary Clubs.
To enter the lottery or learn more, visit the Pemberton Barn Dance Facebook event page.
