Family Forward Festival 2026 in Vancouver

The Family Forward Festival is a joyful new Family Day weekend event celebrating families in all their forms. Presented by Carousel Theatre for Young People, this three-day festival blends storytelling, theatre, music, dance, and community gatherings in a warm, inclusive environment.

Dates: February 14–16, 2026
Venue: Performance Works (Granville Island)
Age Recommendation: All Ages
Running Time: Varies by event

Content Guide for Families

Language: 1/5
Violence & Scariness: 1/5
Sensory Advisories: 1/5
Potentially Anxious Moments: 1/5

This makes the festival highly accessible for young children and families looking for gentle, welcoming programming.

About the Festival

The inaugural Family Forward Festival invites biological, chosen, and blended families to gather for a weekend of creative experiences. Carousel Theatre’s mission of inclusive, youth-focused storytelling is at the heart of every performance and activity.

From drag storytime and live concerts to staged readings and community celebrations, the festival offers meaningful ways for families to connect through the arts.

Festival Event Lineup

Saturday, February 14

11:00 AM – Story Time with Peach Cobblah & Rose Butch
Location: Carousel Studios
A lively drag storytime featuring inclusive children’s books and joyful singalongs that celebrate diverse families.

5:00 PM – Drag Doc Double Bill & Live Performance
Location: Performance Works
Screenings of Becoming Ruby and Drag Is For Everyone! followed by a live drag show hosted by Ruby Chopstix with special guest performers Shay Dior and Karmella Barr.

Sunday, February 15

10:00 AM – Club Carousel: Baby Rave
Location: Carousel Studios
A kid-focused daytime dance party with DJ Softieshan where little ones and caregivers can move freely in a welcoming space.

2:00 PM – Buwa: Live in Concert
Location: Performance Works
An all-ages concert by BC-based Nigerian artist Buwa, blending soul, pop, and storytelling into an uplifting musical experience.

5:00 PM – The Gift Exchange (Staged Reading)
Location: Performance Works
A first public reading of a new environmental comedy by Meghan Gardiner about a young girl navigating friendship and school life.

Monday, February 16

2:00 PM – The Family Flame
Location: Performance Works
An afternoon of true storytelling led by Deborah Williams and guest storytellers sharing heartfelt real-life stories about family.

3:00 PM – Community Celebration & 50th Season Announcement Party
Location: Performance Works
A festive closing event featuring music by DJ Softieshan, dancing, food, and a preview of Carousel Theatre’s upcoming milestone season.

Why Families Should Attend

• Inclusive programming celebrating all family structures
• Gentle, low-intensity content suitable for young audiences
• A mix of performances, music, storytelling, and dance
• A welcoming community atmosphere during the Family Day long weekend

The Family Forward Festival is a chance to laugh, listen, move, and celebrate together in one of Vancouver’s most family-friendly arts spaces.