Music festival season has kicked off in Canada! Embracing the Canadian summer vibes involves experiencing live music in natural settings. With numerous festivals happening nationwide over the next four months, each offering a unique blend of music genres and atmospheres, it can be overwhelming to choose which ones to attend. To simplify your decision-making process, we’ve curated a list of must-see festivals across the provinces.
Starting with Alberta, the Sled Island Music and Arts Festival in Calgary from June 17 to 21 promises an eclectic mix of music, comedy, film, and art performances. Notable acts include Backxwash, Cartel Madras, and Homeshake. Moving on to the Badlands Music Festival in Calgary from July 2 to 12, attendees can enjoy dance music performances from artists like Chris Lake and Fisher. The Calgary Folk Music Festival from July 23 to 26 at Prince’s Island Park is known for its diverse lineup, ranging from folk to hip-hop, featuring artists such as Killer Mike and Of Monsters and Men. In Camrose, the Big Valley Jamboree from July 30 to Aug. 2 will showcase country stars like Keith Urban and Old Dominion.
In British Columbia, music enthusiasts can groove at the FVDED In the Park electronic music festival in Surrey on July 3 and 4 with acts like Bambii and Fisher. The Bass Coast Electronic Music and Art Festival in Merritt from July 10 to 13 offers a unique experience with artists such as Christian Löffler and Skratch Bastid. Vancouver Folk Music Festival at Jericho Beach Park from July 17 to 19 will feature artists like Billy Bragg and Ruby Waters. The Shambhala Music Festival at Salmo River from July 24 to 27 promises an immersive experience with a mix of underground electronic acts including Chromeo and Louis the Child. Lastly, the Sunfest Country Music Festival in Lake Cowichan from July 30 to Aug. 2 will bring in country artists like Jon Pardi and Riley Green.
In Manitoba, the Winnipeg Folk Festival at Birds Hill Provincial Park from July 9 to 12 offers an intimate experience with artists such as Father John Misty and Sylvan Esso. Rockin’ the Fields of Minnedosa from July 31 to Aug. 2 is a rock-centric festival featuring acts like Collective Soul and Quiet Riot.
Moving to New Brunswick, Area 506 in Saint John from July 30 to Aug. 2 is a rock and folk festival celebrating its 11-year anniversary with artists like Glorious Sons and Marianas Trench. Sappyfest in Sackville from July 31 to Aug. 2 focuses on independent music with acts such as Boyhood and Status/Non-Status. Future Forest in Fredericton from Aug. 6 to 10 is an art and electronic music festival featuring artists like Pvrple and Aspen King. The Harvest Music Festival in Fredericton from Sept. 15 to 20 offers a diverse lineup including Barenaked Ladies and Joan Osborne.
These are just some of the exciting music festivals happening across Canada this summer. From indie to electronic, folk to country, there’s something for every music lover to enjoy under the sun!