Day or night, local or out-of-towner, shred enthusiast or newb, this event embodies the vast melting pot of West Coast outdoor culture.
And the best part? The programming at the park doesn’t cost you a red cent.
The Arc’teryx Climbing Academy hosts free events in Squamish’s Pavilion Park to celebrate mountain culture, community and the diverse sports of climbing and mountain running.
Running Friday, August 25, from noon until 11 p.m. and Saturday, August 26, from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., the event is unique to the area, bringing together local community partners while providing programming for individuals of all ages – regardless of if you’re a climber or not.
“We want everyone to come out and have an experience with Arc’teryx that is accessible and fun – it’s an expression of who we are as a brand beyond the sports,” explains Arc’teryx brand experience lead Monika Tesiorowski. “We love our communities, we love our community partners, and we love celebrating this culture with everybody.”
Dynamic daytime activities
One of the mainstays of the daytime programming portion of the event is the Hive Youth Climb Day, which gives youth between the ages of four and 14 a chance to give it a go at bouldering on the Hive’s portable climbing wall.
Running from noon to 4 p.m. on August 25, this try-it activity is the perfect opportunity to explore some youth-friendly climbs, meet instructors and learn more about what the Hive offers young climbers.
“This is for kids who might be interested in climbing but haven’t really had an opportunity to try it before,” describes Tesiorowski.
Guided Stewardship Walks kick off at 1 p.m. on August 25 outside the Watershed Grill, allowing participants to learn about the Indigenous history of Squamish through songs and stories from cultural ambassador Tsawaysia Spukwus Dominique Nahanee of the Squamish Nation.
The guided walk is free, although guests are asked to register ahead of time.
Get geared up
If re-imagining your Arc’teryx gear is your jam, the ReBird Booth can scratch that itch to the tune of 30 per cent of the trade-in value on your eligible products on both August 25 and 26. On-site gear specialists can also fix upbroken zippers, provide patch kits or help to send your gear off for repair.
Exciting events into the evening
The evening programming is highlighted by the premiere screening of the film Body of a Line, the first of its kind in the world of animated climbing films.
Climber Madaleine Sorkin and director Henna Taylor will present the film and share a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like to climb the most challenging rock climb above 13,500 feet in the world: the Dunn-Westbay Direct on Longs Peak (Neniisoteyou’u) in Colorado.
Each evening rounds out with a chance to shake your tailfeather from 9:30 to 11 p.m. to the sounds of Too Many Zooz (Aug. 25) and Dirtwire (Aug. 26).
“This is a unique opportunity to attend free concerts by some incredible bands that can make a crowd dance and interact with the audience, all against a stunning natural backdrop in the heart of Squamish,” Tesiorowski says. “It’s not something that happens every day. It’s a true live music experience.”
Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this fun-loving community, create authentic connections, and indulge in a uniquely fun and free experience! Visit squamish.arcteryxacademy.com to learn more.
