Vancouver 2025 Juno Awards kick off Junofest weekend loaded with events​on March 28, 2025 at 1:09 pm

The 2025 Juno Awards in Vancouver kicked off a weekend loaded with events on Thursday night.

The traditional “soft opening” of the annual awards included the opening of the Let’s Hear It Juno block party at šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square (formerly known as the Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza at Hornby and W. Georgia St, the very popular Juno Songwriters’ Circle and the Juno Comedy show.

Pre-April showers didn’t really put a damper on the crowd that came out to catch Loony’s Vancouver debut.

With her tiara, varsity jacket and plaid mini, the contemporary R&B recording of the year nominee was a tad nervous for the first few numbers finding footing in the fairly well-attended performance tent. Following a story about a near-death car accident that led to a nothing really matters so enjoy life epiphany, the artist delivered a darker track with a great hook that clearly resonated with the audience.

Just FYI for those attending the free events at this site, the food truck fair is along Howe St. So if you plan on grabbing a bite, be aware that you might want to do it before heading into a full show as there are capacity limits. Jamaican patties and Lee’s Donuts are available inside. There is also an adult beverage area.

The Songwriters’ Circle is one of the most popular events every year, which was reflected in the event being held at the Centre in Vancouver for Performing Arts. However, the Juno comedy show at the Vancouver Playhouse with 2025 comedy category nominees Courtney Gilmour, Ivan Decker, Jess Salomon and Nathan Macintosh was just too enticing to miss.

Good call as the event presented by SiriusXM Canada delivered. Beginning with host Ola Dada’s rap about what it was like being a Nigerian moving to Fort McMurray, the show was on.