qathet Region (Powell River), British Columbia
Some of the success of International Choral Kathaumixw can be attributed to the beautiful, quiet town where it takes place. qathet Region, located on the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia’s mainland, is the perfect place to make and celebrate music. Because of its size and location, the distractions of a larger city don’t exist here. Nevertheless, the region is large enough to offer all the amenities required for an international festival. Kathaumixw is embraced wholeheartedly by the townspeople every second summer. The community dedicates itself to the festival, and opens itself up to visitors from all over the world, welcoming new friends and old ones alike.
qathet Region, Tla'amin Nation and City of Powell River
qathet is from the word: q̓at̓ᶿɛt, meaning "working together, bringing together" in the ʔayʔaǰuθəm language of the ɬəʔamɩn, k̓ómoks, χʷɛmaɬkʷu, & ƛohos Nations. The population of the region is around 21,500, with about two-thirds living within the City of Powell River. Tla'amin First Nation (ɬəʔamɛn) is located to the North of the City, and the Tla'amin, Klahoose and Homalco people traditionaly shared the land the area. qathet Region is 135 km (88 miles) northwest of Vancouver. Jervis Inlet lays to the south, separating the area from the Lower Sunshine Coast; the Strait of Georgia and Vancouver Island lay to the west. The qathet regional area extends 71 km (44 miles) from Saltery Bay to Sarah Point, and includes Texada Island, Savary Island, Lasqueti Island, Hernando Island and Harwood Island.
About the climate
The climate here is moderate all year long. In the summer, temperatures range from 18 to 30 degrees Celsius (between 65 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.) The average temperature year round is 9 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit.) We enjoy between 1,400 and 1,900 hours of sunshine every year, and have an average annual rainfall between 101 and 120 cm (45 to 47 inches.)
The region has much to offer in the form of outdoor activities. Hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, beach combing and diving are all popular pass times in the area. The beauty of the place and its proximity to nature serve to inspire people who come to visit.
Every other summer, choirs from around the world meet on the edge of British Columbia’s coastal wilderness to share their music and their love of singing. One of the most vivid memories they take home with them is this idyllic place to spend a holiday.
To learn more about the area, click here to visit the Tourism Website