34 Facts About Big Valley Jamboree

What is Big Valley Jamboree?

Big Valley Jamboree (BVJ) is a country music festival held annually in Camrose, Alberta, Canada. It attracts thousands of country music fans from all over the world. Here are some fascinating facts about this iconic event.

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   Inception Year: BVJ started in 1992 and has been a staple in the country music scene ever since.

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   Location: The festival takes place at the Camrose Regional Exhibition Grounds, which spans over 400 acres.

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   Attendance: Each year, BVJ sees over 25,000 attendees daily, making it one of the largest country music festivals in Canada.

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   Duration: The festival typically runs for four days, from Thursday to Sunday, during the first weekend of August.

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   Camping: BVJ offers extensive camping facilities, with over 4,000 campsites available for festival-goers.

Star-Studded Lineups

BVJ is known for its impressive lineups, featuring some of the biggest names in country music. Here are some notable facts about the artists who have graced the BVJ stage.

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   First Headliner: The first headliner in 1992 was the legendary country singer, George Jones.

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   Big Names: Over the years, BVJ has hosted stars like Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire, and Keith Urban.

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   International Artists: While primarily featuring North American artists, BVJ has also welcomed international acts, including Australia's Keith Urban.

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   Rising Stars: BVJ is a platform for emerging artists, giving them a chance to perform alongside established stars.

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    Surprise Performances: Occasionally, surprise guest performances add an extra layer of excitement for attendees.

Unique Experiences

BVJ offers more than just music. The festival provides a variety of unique experiences that keep fans coming back year after year.

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    Dance Parties: Late-night dance parties are a staple, allowing fans to dance the night away under the stars.

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    Vendor Village: A bustling vendor village offers everything from cowboy hats to artisanal foods.

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    Family-Friendly: BVJ is family-friendly, with activities and areas specifically designed for kids.

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    Workshops: Music workshops and meet-and-greets with artists provide fans with a more intimate experience.

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    Parades: The festival often includes parades featuring floats, horses, and local community groups.

Safety and Community

Safety and community are paramount at BVJ. The festival has implemented several measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.

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    Security: Robust security measures, including bag checks and patrolling officers, help maintain a safe environment.

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    Medical Services: On-site medical services are available to handle any health emergencies.

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    Volunteer Force: Hundreds of volunteers contribute to the smooth running of the festival.

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    Local Impact: BVJ significantly impacts the local economy, bringing in millions of dollars each year.

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    Sustainability: The festival has initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint, including recycling programs and waste reduction efforts.

Memorable Moments

BVJ has had its share of memorable moments that have left a lasting impression on attendees.

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    Weather Challenges: In 2009, a severe storm caused the stage to collapse, but the festival bounced back stronger than ever.

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    Record Attendance: The 2015 festival set a record with over 90,000 attendees over the four days.

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    Anniversary Celebrations: Special events and performances marked the festival's 25th anniversary in 2017.

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    Charity Efforts: BVJ has raised significant funds for various charities, including local food banks and children's hospitals.

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    Fan Proposals: The festival has been the backdrop for numerous marriage proposals, adding to its romantic allure.

Behind the Scenes

A lot goes on behind the scenes to make BVJ the success it is today. Here are some lesser-known facts about the festival's operations.

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    Year-Round Planning: Planning for the next BVJ begins almost immediately after the current one ends.

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    Massive Crew: A crew of over 1,000 people works tirelessly to set up and run the festival.

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    Tech Savvy: Advanced technology, including state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, enhances the concert experience.

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    Local Talent: BVJ often features local talent, giving them a platform to showcase their skills.

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    Food and Drink: The festival offers a wide variety of food and drink options, including local delicacies and international cuisine.

Fun Facts

Here are some fun and quirky facts that add to the charm of BVJ.

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    Merchandise: BVJ merchandise, including T-shirts and hats, is highly sought after by fans.

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    Social Media: The festival has a strong social media presence, keeping fans engaged year-round.

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    Pet-Friendly: Certain areas of the festival are pet-friendly, allowing fans to bring their furry companions.

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    Fireworks: The festival often concludes with a spectacular fireworks display, lighting up the Camrose sky.

Big Valley Jamboree: A Festival Like No Other

Big Valley Jamboree isn't just another music festival. It's a celebration of country music, community, and culture. With its rich history, diverse lineup, and unique experiences, it offers something for everyone. Whether you're a die-hard country fan or just looking for a fun weekend, BVJ delivers. From the main stage performances to the campground camaraderie, every moment is packed with excitement and memories. Plus, the festival's commitment to safety and sustainability ensures a great time for all. So, if you haven't experienced Big Valley Jamboree yet, it's time to add it to your bucket list. You'll leave with a heart full of music and a head full of unforgettable moments. See you at the next BVJ!