Written by Gemma Cocomello on 14.06.17

Festival season has officially begun here in Montreal and we have an amazing one starting that’s perfect for everyone: the Folk Fest Sur le Canal! Going down from June 14th to the 18th at the Lachine Canal Centennial Esplanade in Montreal’s southwest borough, this event has become one of the biggest cultural festivals in all of Quebec. This year will mark Folk Fest’s 10th anniversary and it’s sure to be a big one. With his year being Canada’s 150th birthday and Montreal’s 375th, what better way to experience all things both Canadian and Montreal than checking out Folk Fest!

Folk Fest 2017 logo and lineup montreal

Founded in 2008 by Hello Darlin Productions and Hyberbole Music, the first Folk Fest had 500 attendees. For the 2016 edition, they had over 30,000! Run by a non-profit organization, their goal and passion is to show folk, roots, and bluegrass music and they still continue to do so successfully each year and have made Folk Fest an important staple in the Quebec music scene. 

Folk Fest outdoor photo 1 montreal

Not only does Folk Fest invite popular and well known musicians in the folk scene, they also want to give up-and-coming artists a chance to pursue their dreams with the Lhasa de Sela Youth Bursary for Excellence in Music. This bursary includes a cash prize of $1000 towards musical instruments and equipment, private classes, mentoring and recording sessions, and a chance to perform at the following year’s Folk Fest! Funds for the Lhasa de Sela Bursary are raised through the festival’s silent auction. Click here for a list of some of the great options attendees can bid on.

Folk Fest Performer 2 montreal

Montrealers know how to have a good time during the summer months and Folk Fest is something that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re a folk music junkie or have never listened to it in your life, this will be an enjoyable experience to learn about something new while having some fun and supporting great local and international talents. Some performers in this year’s line-up include: Anthony D’Amato, All Day Breakfasts Stringband, and Birds of Chicago, to name a few. For you Willie Nelson fans (and we know many of you are), there will be a showcase of artists performing his songs as well as other special events.

Folk Fest performance photo montreal

Folk Fest is held outdoors and performances start at 2pm and continue on throughout the evening. Get there early to secure a great spot and enjoy the many food trucks that will be serving up some tasty eats to fuel your energy for this lively event. There’s a family area with great activities for kids (and adults!) as well as a VIP section for attendees who wish to enjoy the festival with the finest of comforts such as: access to private toilets, private bar, etc. There’s also an artisan gallery for all you art-lovers so you can feel free to look at and even buy some great pieces.

Folk Fest Outdoor photo 3 montreal

It’s strongly recommended to take public transportation to Folk Fest so make sure you take advantage of Montreal’s great transport system and avoid the hassle of searching for parking and added aggravation. Remember, you’re there for a good time, not to be stressed out! Click here for directions! Shows are free excluding the special events, however VIP day and weekend passes are available. Day passes go for around $40 and weekend around $100. With the passes, you have access to all shows and events as well as the VIP area. Visit Folk Fest Sur Le Canal’s website to purchase your VIP tickets and learn more about this fun and lively festival!

Fold Fest food truck 3 montreal

3653-, 3667 Rue Saint-Patrick, Montréal, QC H4E 1A1

Photos courtesy of Folk Fest.

Post a Comment