Music festival season has kicked off in Canada! Summertime in Canada offers a plethora of music festivals, each with a unique vibe and lineup. From the country sounds of Big Valley Jamboree in Camrose, Alberta, to the diverse offerings of Festival d’été in Quebec City, there is something for everyone. To help you navigate the festival scene, we’ve compiled a list of must-see festivals across the country.
Starting in Alberta, the Sled Island Music and Arts Festival in Calgary, running from June 17 to 21, promises an eclectic mix of music, comedy, film, and art installations. Notable acts include Backxwash, Cartel Madras, clipping., and more. Moving to the Badlands Music Festival in Calgary from July 2 to 12, attendees can enjoy dance music from top Canadian and international artists under a big-top tent downtown.
In British Columbia, music lovers can check out FVDED In the Park in Surrey on July 3-4 for booming electronic beats with acts like Fisher, LSDXOXO, and more. For a dose of earth-shaking electronic acts, the Bass Coast Electronic Music and Art Festival in Merritt from July 10 to 13 is a must-visit, featuring artists like Addison Groove and Skratch Bastid.
In Manitoba, the Winnipeg Folk Festival in Birds Hill Provincial Park from July 9 to 12 offers an intimate atmosphere with artists like Father John Misty and Wolf Parade. Rock enthusiasts can head to Rockin’ the Fields of Minnedosa in Minnedosa from July 31 to August 2 for classic rock and new emerging artists.
In New Brunswick, Area 506 in Saint John from July 30 to August 2 will celebrate its 11th year with rock and folk acts like the Glorious Sons and Marianas Trench. For indie music lovers, Sappyfest in Sackville from July 31 to August 2 showcases independent music and creativity with acts like Boyhood and Eliza Niemi.
In Newfoundland and Labrador, the Lawnya Vawnya festival in St. John’s from June 3 to 6 presents a diverse lineup, including Absolute Losers and Tanya Tagaq. The Churchill Park Music Festival in St. John’s from July 17 to 25 offers a mix of country, pop, and rock acts like Amanda Marshall and the Chicks.
These are just a few of the exciting music festivals happening across Canada this summer. Whether you’re into folk, electronic, rock, or country, there’s a festival waiting for you to experience the magic of live music in the great outdoors.
