20 June 2026
Mary Winspear Centre
2243 Beacon Ave.
Sidney, BC
About VGS
The VGS is a great opportunity for instrument makers to showcase their finest work and for musicians, music lovers and enthusiasts to discover, celebrate and purchase some of the best hand-made guitars available, including classicals, flamencos, steel-string acoustics, electrics, basses, pedals, amps, hardware and wood.
This year VGS is organized by Bernard Funston (Funston Guitars) and Reuben Forsland (Joi Guitars) in collaboration with the Seaside Music Festival. The Seaside Music Festival will be presenting master classes, workshops and performances by talented artists in Sidney and at other venues from 19-21 June 2026.
Whether you’re a seasoned musician, a novice strummer or someone who appreciates a well-built piece of art, the VGS guarantees that you won’t be disappointed by this unique display of musical instruments featuring talented builders from Vancouver Island alongside other premier luthiers from throughout Canada.
The Event
Meet the Makers
Meet the people who craft some of the most unique, inventive, and decorative instruments used by some of the world's premier musicians. The public will have the chance to chat to luthiers, repair techs and industry vendors to gain invaluable knowledge on a plethora of boutique instruments.
Test the Gear
Private rooms will be available for builders and customers to chat about an instrument's unique specifications and test its abilities in a welcoming environment. Whether you're looking to purchase the instrument or commission a custom build of your own, this is great opportunity to try before you buy!
Purchases & Orders
Many of the instruments at VGS 2026 are available for purchase. Custom-built instruments can also be ordered from luthiers. Guitar makers will be pleased to answer your questions and discuss their building processes with you.
Please visit the 2026 Exhibitors page!
The VGS 2026 will be held in Room 2 of the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney, BC.
Free parking is available at the Centre and there is convenient access to Room 2 from the parking lot, including wheelchair access. Washrooms are available for visitors.
MARY WINSPEAR CENTRE
2243 Beacon Avenue
Sidney, BC, V8L 1W9
Ph 1 (250) 656-0275
DIRECTIONS TO THE VENUE
Mary Winspear Floorplan
Doors Open 10am-4pm
Free Admission
