What's better than cruising around one of Vancouver's oldest, and most colourful neighbourhoods while listening to free jazz? Maybe hearing your childhood recorder teacher (yes, I said recorder) as one of those free jazz artists...Life's changed since my pre-adolescent "Ode to Joy" days...

This weekend, at three stages in Gastown, a variety of local and international jazz artists will perform in a (hopefully) warm, sunny summertime laid-back atmosphere.

Artists will be performing from 12 noon to 6pm on both Saturday, June 23rd, and Sunday, June 24th. The venues are Victory Square, Maple Tree Square, and the Steam Clock.

Acts range from traditional trios to improvisational ensembles and international groups with afrobeat flavours. This is a great opportunity to kick back with some friends and take in one of Vancouver's more well-organized and relaxed outdoor street festivals. Another great part about the Gastown festival is that Water Street, from Carrall to Cambie, is completely closed to traffic, making it a green as well as a family-friendly event.

For more information on the free jazz in Gastown, and the other free events going on throughout the festival, including open-air, free jazz at the Roundhouse and at Granville Island during the Canada Day long weekend, check out the Coastal Jazz website.

Photo by flickr user juliainc.