The Cowichan Music Festival is an annual celebration of the performing arts, showcasing the talents of young performers from across the Cowichan Valley and Gulf Island. Held in Duncan, British Columbia, the festival features adjudicated performances in Dance, Piano, Instruments (including strings and bands) and Vocal (classical voice, musical theatre and choirs).

The main adjudicated festival takes place over approximately two weeks each February, with registration typically opening in November. The festival concludes in early March with two special showcase events:

• Gala Recital – Held at Duncan United Church, this recital features award-winning performances in Piano, Instruments and Vocal.
• Highlights Concert – Hosted at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, this concert showcases outstanding performers selected to represent the festival at the Performing Arts BC Provincial Festival, along with other exceptional performances in Dance, Piano, Instruments and Vocal.

Founded in 1949 by an enthusiastic Parent Teacher Auxiliary, the Cowichan Music Festival began with just 50 entries. Today, it has grown into one of the region's premier performing arts festivals, receiving 947 entries in 2026. The 78th Annual Cowichan Music Festival will be held in 2027.

The festival is organized by a small Executive Board and supported by the dedication of many enthusiastic volunteers. As a registered non-profit organization, we receive no government funding. Our 2026 operating budget of approximately $67,000 was made possible through the generous support of community organizations, businesses, donors, sponsors, and individual supporters. Their contributions also allow us to award approximately $8,000 in scholarships and monetary awards to deserving participants each year.

We are proud to be affiliated with Performing Arts BC, our provincial organization. Each year, we have the privilege of selecting outstanding participants to represent the Cowichan Music Festival at the Performing Arts BC Provincial Festival, providing young performers with an opportunity to showcase their talents on the provincial stage.