Repost This ArticleFIRST HELD IN 2009, the Wanderlust Festival has now expanded to multiple locations across the US and Canada. This year was the first time it was held in Whistler, BC. I was tasked with shooting the event, and finding time to actually practice my yoga. The four days were a whirlwind of downward dogs, provocative talks, yoga pants, and solid music acts, including Thievery Corporation and Michael Franti.
A video series is soon to come but, for now, enjoy the pictures. 
[Special thanks for accommodation during the shoot provided by Delta Whistler Village Suites.]
Whistler sunset
Sunset from the peak of Whistler.
Peter Jack Rainbird
Ambient guitarist Peter Jack Rainbird serenades the crowds at Wanderlust. The weekend was filled with numerous musicians, dancers, and performances in the streets.
Hoop dance
Of the many classes offered at Wanderlust, Shakti Sunfire teaches students the moves of hoop dance.Intermission
A look inside
Inside the various venues, students sweat and flow. Teachers from all over North America offer their unique flavour of yoga.
Panel discussion
Various panels were held at the "Speakeasy," including this one on the ethics of the student / teacher relationship. Here, AcroYogi Jason Nemer shares a story with the audience.
Janet Stone
Janet Stone tells the tale of Hanuman, the Hindu deity, during her class in "The Nest" inside the Whistler Conference Center.
Yoga DJ
DJ Drez spins live music to Janet Stone's class. Many of the classes had live musicians or DJs as a complement to the yoga.
Nico Luce teaching
Yoga teacher Nico Luce instructs his class on the outdoor stage in the Whistler Olympic Plaza.
MC Yogi and Krishna Das
The event hosted various acts, from Thievery Corporation to Quixotic. Here, MC Yogi and Kirtan legend Krishna Das share the stage together.Intermission
The audience approves
Outdoor yoga
Friday night included a massive outdoor yoga class, beautifully conducted by yoga mainstay Seane Corn, accompanied by the infectious music of Michael Franti.
Seane Corn
One of the most popular teachers in North America, Seane Corn is a master of her craft and an inspiration to the crowd.
The crowd
The yoga class / inspirational concert ends with the crowd in a frenzy. The collective energy was tangible.
Michael Franti
Michael Franti serenades the crowd with his signature melodies.
Headliner
Saturday night is packed for the headliner, Michael Franti. With the weather holding clear, and the moon peeking over the stage, it was a fitting night for a weekend of spiritual practice and celebration.
Ian MacKenzie
Ian MacKenzie is the founder and former editor of Brave New Traveler. He is Head of Video at Matador Network. Ian is also an independent filmmaker, with his first feature (One Week Job) released in 2010. His more recent projects include Sacred Economics and Occupy Love.
Very cool! But what is it with BC and yoga… I once stepped off the gondola on Grouse Mountain and walked into an open air yoga workshop by Lululemon!