Music festival season marks the start of summer fun in Canada, offering a diverse range of live music experiences in natural settings. With hundreds of festivals happening across the country over the next few months, choosing where to go can be overwhelming. To help you decide, here is a curated list of notable festivals in various provinces featuring artists like Tate McRae, Lorde, Angine de Poitrine, and more.
Starting in 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 installations. Notable acts include Backxwash and Homeshake. In the same city, the Badlands Music Festival from July 2 to 12 will showcase top dance music artists like Chris Lake and Notion. Moving to Edmonton, the Edmonton Folk Fest happening from August 6 to 9 offers a diverse lineup with artists such as Cat Power and Mariel Buckley.
In British Columbia, the FVDED In the Park festival in Surrey on July 3 and 4 will feature electrifying performances from artists like Fisher and Nia Archives. For electronic music enthusiasts, the Bass Coast Electronic Music and Art Festival in Merritt from July 10 to 13 is a must-visit, with acts like Addison Groove and Skratch Bastid. Meanwhile, the Shambhala Music Festival in Salmo River from July 24 to 27 will cater to fans of underground electronic music with artists such as A-Trak and Machinedrum.
In Manitoba, the Winnipeg Folk Festival in Winnipeg from July 9 to 12 offers an intimate musical experience in the wilderness of Birds Hill Provincial Park, featuring artists like Wolf Parade and Real Estate. For classic rock lovers, the Rockin’ the Fields of Minnedosa festival in Minnedosa from July 31 to August 2 will present iconic acts like Cheap Trick and Quiet Riot.
Moving to New Brunswick, the Area 506 festival in Saint John from July 30 to August 2 will celebrate rock music with performers like Kathleen Edwards and the Glorious Sons. If you’re a fan of indie music, don’t miss the Sappyfest in Sackville from July 31 to August 2, featuring artists such as Boyhood and Leanne Betasamosake Simpson. Additionally, the Future Forest festival in Fredericton from August 6 to 10 offers a unique experience with art and electronic music performances in a forest setting.
These are just a few highlights from the diverse array of music festivals happening across Canada this summer, promising unforgettable experiences for music enthusiasts of all tastes.