The music festival season is now in full swing, offering an array of events across Canada over the next four months. With a diverse selection of festivals happening nationwide, from the country-themed Big Valley Jamboree in Camrose, Alta., to the eclectic Festival d’été in Quebec City, choosing where to go can be overwhelming. To help you make your decision, we have compiled a list of notable festivals happening this summer.
In Alberta, music enthusiasts can enjoy the Sled Island Music and Arts Festival in Calgary from June 17 to 21, featuring performances by artists such as Backxwash, Cartel Madras, and Homeshake. For dance music lovers, the Badlands Music Festival in Calgary from July 2 to 12 will showcase acts like Chris Lake and Dom Dolla under a big-top tent. The Calgary Folk Music Festival at Prince’s Island Park from July 23 to 26 promises a diverse lineup including Corb Lund and Thundercat. Further south in Camrose, the Big Valley Jamboree from July 30 to Aug. 2 will host country stars like Keith Urban and Old Dominion. Wrapping up the summer in Edmonton is the Edmonton Folk Fest from August 6 to 9, featuring Cat Power and Hurray For the Riff Raff.
In British Columbia, music enthusiasts can head to the FVDED In the Park electronic music festival in Surrey on July 3 and 4, with acts like Fisher and LSDXOXO. The Bass Coast Electronic Music and Art Festival in Merritt from July 10 to 13 will showcase artists like Christian Löffler and Skratch Bastid. Vancouver will host the Vancouver Folk Music Festival at Jericho Beach Park from July 17 to 19, with performances by artists from various countries including Billy Bragg and Valerie June. For a more underground experience, the Shambhala Music Festival at Salmo River from July 24 to 27 will feature acts like A-Trak and Chromeo. Country music fans can head to Lake Cowichan for the Sunfest Country Music Festival from July 30 to Aug. 2, featuring artists like James Barker Band and Riley Green.
In Manitoba, the Winnipeg Folk Festival in Winnipeg from July 9 to 12 will offer a mix of folk, pop, and rock acts, including Sylvan Esso and Wolf Parade. Rock enthusiasts can head to Rockin’ the Fields of Minnedosa from July 31 to Aug. 2 for classic rock acts like Collective Soul and Quiet Riot.
In New Brunswick, music lovers can attend Area 506 in Saint John from July 30 to Aug. 2 for a mix of rock and folk acts like the Glorious Sons and Kathleen Edwards. Sappyfest in Sackville from July 31 to Aug. 2 will feature indie stalwarts like Boyhood and Leanne Betasamosake Simpson. For electronic music fans, the Future Forest festival in Fredericton from Aug. 6 to 10 will offer a unique experience in a forest setting with artists like Chimp It and Pvrple. Wrapping up the summer is the Harvest Music Festival in Fredericton from Sept. 15 to 20, featuring acts like Barenaked Ladies and the Strumbellas.
These are just a few of the exciting music festivals happening across Canada this summer, offering a wide range of musical experiences for every taste.
