This initiative began in the summer of 2015 when a few friends thought about doing a little house concert to bring some of the community together in their home, and to showcase some local talent. Sprouting from that idea, they put their heads and talents together and went even further to put together a backyard music festival in Derwent, at the home of 4 men called the Bro-Tel.

The event featured an impressive lineup of both professional and amateur musicians and opportunities for open-stage performances as well. Somewhat surprisingly, attendees came from all parts of Alberta and also from out of province!

Since then we have continued (to our delight) to be a growing festival that has become a newly founded summer tradition for local residents and visiting neighbours. The communal aspect of the “Backyard” continues to be a unique atmosphere that participants keep coming back for.