Well fellow music lovers, this summer is shaping up to be one for the history books. After a long hiatus, most of the biggest music fests in Canada are set to return in 2022, offering a wide range of options. Whether you’re hoping to party in the middle of the city, or have a sojourn in a secluded forest, there are options for you.
Here are 12 of the biggest music fests coming to Canada this year.
British Columbia
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Shambhala
BC is home to one of the most famous EDM festivals not just in Canada, but around the world. Shambhala will once again land at the Salmo River Ranch, for 4 straight days of forested wonder mixed with some incredible performers.
When: July 22nd to 25th
Where: Salmo, BC
FVDED in the Park
Meanwhile, FVDED in the Park has become a seriously high quality option for those looking to stay in Metro Vancouver. This year will be no different, with headliners like Young Thug and Illenium set to perform.
When: July 8th and 9th
Where: Surrey, BC
Vancouver Folk Fest
But for those hoping for something a little more relaxed, we suggest the Vancouver Folk Fest. One of the longest-running music fests in western Canada, but with the added bonus of an absolutely amazing seaside location to really boost the experience.
When: July 15th to 17th
Where: Vancouver, BC
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Alberta
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Big Valley Jamboree
If you’re thinking that Alberta is the top choice to see some country music fests in Canada in 2022, you’re right. Specifically BVJ, which is the de facto option for drinking beers, tailgating, and just generally having a ball in between some of the biggest names in the genre right now.
When: July 28th to 31st
Where: Camrose, Alberta
Cowboys Music Festival
While there will absolutely be country music here, this music festival has got a long list of “oh, really?” names to have joined over the years, ranging from Snoop Dogg to Lil Nas X to Marshmello. Of course, it overlapping with the Stampede just adds to the excitement.
When: July 7th to 17th
Where: Calgary, Alberta
Sled Island Music & Arts Festival
Of course, other music fests are also on the menu for Alberta this summer! Sled Island is one of our top picks, since it offers a wide range of artists performing at venues around the city. Makes it perfect for an entire weekend of fun to be had!
When: June 22nd to 26th
Where: Calgary, Alberta
Edmonton Folk Fest
And like in Vancouver, the Edmonton Folk Fest has not just endured, but grown, over the decades it’s been around. A must for anyone looking to enjoy a weekend in the city, especially since it’s right smack dab in the middle of the summer!
When: August 4th to 7th
Where: Edmonton, Alberta
Ontario
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NXNE
The Canadian answer to SXSW is often the place to see the best emerging talent in the world. Seriously, past lineups have included Lizzo, Post Malone, Vince Staples, Run the Jewels… so no matter who ends up playing this year, rest assured it’ll be worth your while.
When: June 14th to 19th
Where: Toronto, Ontario
Veld Music Festival
Meanwhile, this EDM focused music festival can go toe to toe with some of the biggest on earth. This year’s lineup includes icons of the genre (Alesso, Armin van Buuren) alongside up and comers, with a few wildcard names thrown in there to boot. Seriously, Gunna?
When: July 29th to 31st
Where: Toronto, Ontario
Ottawa Bluesfest
For even more variety, we’re saying Ottawa Bluesfest. Yes, there are blues musicians playing. However, the festival has evolved over time, and the end result is a lineup that ranges from Jack Johnson to Luke Combs to Tash Sultana.
When: July 7th to 17th
Where: Ottawa, Ontario
Field Trip
Our top pick for a single-day festival to check out in Canada. Held in downtown Toronto, Field Trip is a family-friendly music festival focusing on seriously good bands and even better vibes. Sure, it might not be built for debauchery, but not all fests have to be!
When: July 9th
Where: Toronto, Ontario
Quebec
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Osheaga
Which brings us to arguably the most famous music festival in Canada. Osheaga needs no selling, as both the lineup and the location speak for themselves. Dua Lipa, ASAP Rocky… heck, even Dominic Fike is joining the party this year. It’s a bucket list festival for any music lover, we’ll just say it.
When: July 29th to 31st
Where: Montreal, Quebec
And on that note, that’s our list of the best music fests to check out in Canada in 2022! Find one you like, talk to your pals, buy some tickets! It’s that easy, trust us.
