Top live music festivals in Ontario 2026
VELD Music Festival, Toronto
Here are some of the best live music festivals and events to keep on your radar. Note that dates may vary, so check the website for the most up-to-date information.
Find more unique events celebrating live music and cultural diversity at Festivals and Events Ontario.
Greater Toronto Area (GTA)
VELD Music Festival
One of the most popular multi-day music festivals in Ontario, this all-ages event consistently brings out some of the best in electronic dance music and hip-hop to Downsview Park.
When: July 31–August 2, 2026
Where: 70 Canuck Avenue, North York
Electric Island
Spanning eight days over four weekends, Electric Island brings the best of local and international house, techno and electronic music to Fort York and The Bentway.
When: Check back for the 2026 dates.
Where: 800 Fleet Street, Toronto
Beaches Jazz Festival
Jazz takes centre stage in Toronto’s lakeside Beaches community during this 38th-year celebration. Performances are held in several outdoor venues, including streets and parks.
When: July 2–26, 2026
Where: The Beaches
Departure Festival
A reimagination of Canadian Music Week, Departure is a launchpad featuring diverse musical talent. Experience live performances, engage in industry discussions and connect with musicians, producers and professionals.
When: May 4–10, 2026
Where: Various venues in Toronto
Prepare the Ground
This community-led art and heavy music festival is inspired by European festivals like Roadburn and Amplifest. The first of its kind in Toronto, it embraces heavy music as a collective catharsis rather than a single genre.
When: May 29–31, 2026
Where: Various venues in Toronto
NXNE
Returning for its 31st year in 2026, NXNE brings the best emerging Canadian and international artists to Toronto’s top live music venues. The festival has a history of launching acts like The Weeknd, Lizzo and Daniel Caesar.
When: June 10–14, 2026
Where: Various venues in Toronto
#BollywoodMonster Mashup
The largest South Asian festival in Canada returns to Celebration Square, featuring free concerts with international Bollywood stars, a food festival, dance performances, a laser show and more.
When: July 24–26, 2026
Where: 300 City Centre Drive, Mississauga
Vibrant Brampton Summer Fest
This popular South Asian arts, heritage and music festival showcases more than 150 local and international acts in Gage Park.
When: Watch for the upcoming 2026 dates.
Where: 45 Main Street South, Brampton
Toronto Caribbean Carnival
Join the revelry of North America’s largest festival, which celebrates Caribbean music, food and culture and culminates in a Grand Parade at Exhibition Place. Get the most out of the celebration with these helpful tips for enjoying the Toronto Caribbean Carnival
When: August 3, 2026
Where: 100 Princes' Boulevard, Toronto
T.U. Jazz Fest
Discover Canada’s next generation of jazz greats—in the heart of Toronto.
The biggest jazz festival for emerging artists is celebrating its 12th annual festival at Mel Lastman Square on Labour Day weekend.
T.U. Jazz Fest also runs the Summer Live Music Festival (2026 date pending), featuring award-winning jazz bands, world music and a cappella groups at Trillium Park.
When: September 4–7, 2026
Ottawa Region
Ottawa Bluesfest
This premier music festival showcases star-studded lineups, including diverse local, national and international talent in the LeBreton Flats.
When: July 9–19, 2026
Where: 1 Vimy Place, Ottawa
Ottawa Jazz Festival
Celebrating 46 years in 2026, this festival highlights the creativity and diversity of jazz. It evolved from a weekend in Major’s Hill Park to one of the region's top summer events, featuring approximately 300 artists.
When: June 19–28, 2026
Where: Multiple venues in Ottawa
Ottawa Chamberfest
This popular concert series has been engaging and inspiring audiences in Ottawa for almost four decades. Don’t miss this year’s summer event.
When: Keep an eye out for the 2026 dates.
Where: Multiple venues in Ottawa
Nostalgia Music Festival
This ultimate tribute event celebrates the music you loved from the 1970s, 80s and 90s. Enjoy full-service bars, food vendors and a great line-up of professional tribute shows in LeBreton Flats.
When: August 19–23, 2026
Where: 1 Vimy Place, Ottawa
CityFolk Festival
Gather on the Great Lawn at Lansdowne Park for a four-day fall celebration of great music, food and fun at CityFolk.
When: September 17–20, 2026
Hamilton, Halton and Brant
Supercrawl
An annual arts and indie music event held along James Street North with outdoor performances and exhibits.
When: September 11–13, 2026
Where: Downtown Hamilton
York, Durham and Headwaters
Summer of Soca Festival
Celebrate Caribbean music and culture with performances from international artists at this three-day soca festival held at Markham Fairgrounds.
When: July 31–August 2, 2026
Where: 10801 McCowan Road, Markham
Sunflower Garden Festival
This day-long alcohol-free live music festival at Campbell’s Cross Farm features wellness activities, family attractions, various cuisines and an emphasis on women artists and performers.
When: August 22, 2026
Where: 3634 King Street, Inglewood
CONVERGENCE Music and Art Festival
CONVERGENCE brings together musicians and artists for a day of mind-bending experiences, art installations and live music in Oshawa’s downtown. This free event features local vendors, street food and even board game demos.
When: September 19–20, 2026
Where: Downtown Oshawa
Niagara Region
Misty City Music Festival
Hear some of the best country and rock artists at the Misty City Music Festival, one of Niagara’s feel-good weekend music festivals set against the backdrop of the stunning Falls. The festival also features local food vendors, barbecue and cold beer.
When: September 18–20, 2026
Where: 6727 Stanley Avenue, Niagara Falls
Cicada Music & Arts Festival
A dynamic celebration of music, art and culture with a diverse lineup across multiple stages, showcasing a range of genres and artists, as well as food and drink vendors in the heart of Niagara.
This year’s festival will feature headlining performances by Canadian indie favourites Sam Roberts Band, Broken Social Scene, 54-40, The Rural Alberta Advantage, Ruby Waters and more.
When: October 2–3, 2026
Where: Henley Island, St. Catharines
Jackson-Triggs Concert Series
Watch over a dozen all-Canadian performances under the stars at the Jackson-Triggs amphitheatre this summer. This unique open-air venue is situated within the rolling vineyards of Niagara’s wine country.
When: Look out for the 2026 dates.
Bruce, Grey and Simcoe
Mariposa Folk Festival
For over 60 years, this vibrant festival has celebrated music, storytelling, dance and craft in a stunning lakeside setting at Tudhope Park.
When: July 3–5, 2026
Where: 450 Atherley Road, Orillia
Collingwood Music Festival
Experience the magic of this popular annual festival with free family events and inspiring youth showcases, including four performances and a Masterclass.
When: July 5–18, 2026
Where: Various venues in Collingwood
Four Winds Music Festival
This “roots and rock” event at Riverstone Retreat combines singer-songwriters, folk, rock, world music and bluegrass.
When: July 10–12, 2026
Where: 233639 Concession 2 WGR, Durham
Eclectic Electrics
Immerse yourself in an eclectic program of experimental music and sound art on a farm overlooking the scenic Big Head Valley in Meaford.
When: July 31–August 2, 2026
Where: 202 Scotch Mountain Road, Meaford
Kempenfest
One of Barrie’s best summer events for music lovers, Kempenfest is celebrating 54 years of amazing live music along with great food, a midway and arts and crafts on the waterfront.
When: July 31–August 3, 2026
Where: Barrie waterfront
Boots & Hearts
Canada’s largest annual camping country music mash-up, held at Burl's Creek Event Grounds, is open to all ages. This year’s lineup includes popular musicians The Chicks, Rascal Flatts, Russell Dickerson and Jessie Murph.
When: August 6–9, 2026
Where: 240 8 Line South, Oro Station
Lucknow’s Music in the Fields
A “large-scale festival with a small-town feel,” Lucknow’s Music in the Fields is an annual non-profit music festival held at Graceland Festival Grounds. 100% of proceeds are donated to charity.
When: August 27–29, 2026
Where: 557 Walter Street, Lucknow
Stonebridge Wasaga Beach Blues
Enjoy a three-day outdoor music festival on two stages featuring live blues performances, a vendors’ village and liquid lounge.
When: September 18–20, 2026
Where: 291 Main Street, Wasaga Beach
Gussapolooza Music Festival
Gussapolooza is a one-of-a-kind music festival dedicated to supporting local emerging artists and talented artists from around the globe. Explore interactive art installations, gourmet food, kids’ workshops and late-night jam sessions at the Georgian Bay Steam Show Grounds.
When: August 21–23, 2026
Where: 4635 Victoria Street West, Cookstown
Collingwood Music Festival
Experience the magic of this popular annual festival with free family events and inspiring youth showcases, including four performances and a Masterclass.
When: July 5–18, 2026
Where: Various venues in Collingwood
Southwestern Ontario
Mud Creek Bluegrass Festival
Make unforgettable memories at this bluegrass festival. The third annual event, which takes place at West Williams Community Centre, features Authentic Unlimited as the headlining band and JUNO-nominated comedian Wendell Ferguson as the host.
When: July 9–12, 2026
Where: 32217 Kerwood Road, Parkhill
Bluewater BorderFest
Sarnia-Lambton's biggest concert of the year boasts three nights of star-studded American and Canadian musical talent at Centennial Park.
When: Watch for the upcoming 2026 dates.
Where: 430 Front Street North, Sarnia
Sunfest
Food, art, culture and music from around the world make this Victoria Park event a summer highlight.
When: July 9–12, 2026
Where: 580 Clarence Street, London
Rock The Park
This outdoor live music event in London’s Harris Park features four days of big-name bands and artists, including The Lumineers, Tucker Wetmore and Three Days Grace.
When: July 15–18, 2026
Where: 531 Ridout Street North, London
Revelree Music Festival
Sarnia’s Canatara Park will be rocking with established and up-and-coming artists at this all-ages summer event.
When: Stay tuned for the 2026 dates.
Where: 1200 Lake Chipican Drive, Sarnia
Middle River Music Fest
Enjoy live performances, food trucks, a farm tour, kids’ activities and an after-party DJ at this eco- and family-friendly music festival on Common Ground Farm.
When: Check back for the 2026 dates.
Where: 6986 Middle River Road, St. Thomas
VENUExVENUE Music Festival
Over the course of this three-day music festival, view more than 50 artists at six venues in London, Canada’s first UNESCO-designated “City of Music.”
When: 2026 dates to be confirmed.
Where: Various venues in London
Huron, Perth, Waterloo and Wellington
Meadows Music Festival
Heading into its fourth year, this country and rock music festival will be headlined by popular musicians Dallas Smith and the Arkells. You’ll find local food vendors and alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, plus the option of camping on the Centre Wellington Community Sportsplex grounds.
When: May 29–30, 2026
Where: 550 Belsyde Avenue East, Fergus
Hillside Festival
This three-day, multi-stage event celebrates diversity, music and community in a scenic, eco-friendly setting on Guelph Lake.
When: July 17–19, 2026
Where: 7743 Conservation Road RR4, Guelph
The Guelph Jazz Festival
Since 1994, the award-winning Guelph Jazz Festival has hosted local to international jazz musicians. In addition to paid performances, music lovers can enjoy free shows in Market Square, artist talks and workshops.
When: September 11–13, 2026
Where: Multiple venues in Guelph
Goderich Celtic Roots Festival
Held on the shores of Lake Huron at Lions Harbour Park, this is the ultimate Celtic experience in Ontario, celebrating traditional Celtic music and crafts.
When: August 7–9, 2026
Where: Harbour Street, Goderich
Kitchener Blues Fest
Don’t miss one of the largest and most vibrant arts and music events in the Waterloo Region this summer. In addition to true blues, this free musical event features food trucks, beer gardens and festival swag.
When: August 6–9, 2026
Where: Downtown Kitchener
Southeastern Ontario
Big River Country Festival
Bring your dancing shoes and enjoy the best in country music at the Big River Country Festival in the Happy Green Acres Campground.
The campground also features other great music events like the Ambush Spring Jam, 1000 Islands Country Fest, Rock the Acres and Back to the 80s.
When: September 10–12, 2026
Kawarthas and Northumberland
Westben Performing Arts Theatre
The Westben Performing Arts Theatre showcases a mix of musical and stage performances in a magnificent open-air, timber-frame barn with views over the rolling farm hills outside Campbellford.
When: Summer 2026
Where: 6698 County Road 30, Campbellford
Peterborough Musicfest
Situated on the shores of picturesque Little Lake at Del Crary Park, Canada’s longest-running, free-admission festival offers eight weeks of concerts showcasing renowned musicians.
When: Wednesdays and Saturdays from June 27–August 19, 2026
Where: 100 George Street North, Peterborough
Peterborough Folk Festival
Mark your calendars for Canada’s longest-running free-admission folk festival as it celebrates its 37th season of great music, culture and community in Nicholls Oval Park on the banks of the Otonabee River.
When: August 13–16, 2026
Where: 725 Armour Road, Peterborough
Port Hope Jazz Festival
Soak in four full days of great jazz music, fun and sun. Get your tickets now. This indoor jazz concert series brings top jazz talent to cozy venues across Port Hope.
When: August 20–23, 2026
Where: Various venues in Port Hope
Haliburton Highlands to the Ottawa Valley
The Festival of Small Halls
Enjoy “big music in a little place” with intimate performances by exceptional artists held in various cherished venues and spaces across Eastern Ontario.
When: Check back for the 2026 dates.
Where: Multiple locations across Eastern Ontario
Algonquin Park, Muskoka and Parry Sound
Festival of the Sound
Since 1979, the Festival of the Sound has brought some of the great chamber and classical music musicians from Canada and around the world to the scenic shores of Georgian Bay.
When: July 22—August 8, 2026
Where: 2 Bay Street, Parry Sound
Harvest Festival
Enjoy four days of electronic music, circus performances and creative expression on the lands of Midlothian Castle and its famous Screaming Heads sculptures.
When: September 11–14, 2026
Where: 981 Midlothian Road, Burk’s Falls
Elvis & Co Music Festival
Elvis & Co is a four-day festival that highlights the music and culture that influenced Elvis and his influence on the music that came after. Held at Deerhurst Resort, it also features multiple professional Elvis artists competing in an Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest.
When: October 29–November 1, 2026
Where: 1235 Deerhurst Drive, Huntsville
Tall Pines Music & Arts
Celebrate the beauty of nature, art and music in Muskoka with an all-Canadian music performance lineup. Past performers include Matthew Good, The Strumbellas, Moist, Sloan and more at Gull Lake Park.
When: Stay tuned for the 2026 dates.
Northeastern Ontario
Northern Lights Festival Boréal
The tradition continues and evolves at this signature annual event at Bell Park. Watch amazing acts, including emerging talent and highly acclaimed artists.
When: July 10–12, 2026
Where: Paris Street, Greater Sudbury
River and Sky
Combine camping, hiking, swimming, arts and crafts, family-friendly activities and amazing music at this multi-day music festival at Fishers’ Paradise.
When: July 22—26, 2026
Where: 3636B ON-539, Field
Rock on the River
Rock on the River is one of Timmins’ most iconic summer music events, featuring a strong lineup of performers each year at Hollinger Park.
When: July 24–25, 2026
Where: 565 Algonquin Boulevard East, Timmins
Mattawa Voyageur Days
Enjoy free activities for all ages and a legendary line-up of Canadian country, rock and folk music.
When: July 24–26, 2026
Where: Explorer’s Point, Mattawa
Bay Block Party
Bring the whole family to this free entry, all-day, all-ages music event in downtown North Bay. It features live music, a beer garden, food vendors, artisans and plenty of kid-friendly activities.
When: August 22, 2026
Where: Downtown North Bay
Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma
Go North Music Festival
This outdoor camping festival features a variety of musical genres including new music, folk, roots, bluegrass, rock and pop, plus food vendors, locally made beer, local art and activities for kids.
When: July 24–25, 2026
Where: Richards Landing, St. Joseph Island
Northern Vibe Festival
Experience the joy of camping and live music in the boreal forest near Sault Ste. Marie. Enjoy watching talented Canadian artists who will keep you moving to the beat.
When: August 28–30, 2026
Where: G78G+3Q, Poplar Dale
Northwest Ontario
Live From the Rock Folk Festival
This annual grassroots gathering attracts over 2,000 music lovers to Lake Superior’s North Shore with world-class music, campfire jams, acoustic song circles and more.
When: August 7–9, 2026
Where: 42 Salls Street, Red Rock
Trout Forest Music Festival
Enjoy late-night jam sessions around the bonfires, making for a memorable experience of Music in the Woods at Ear Falls Park. The “Trout” features workshops, creative arts selection, great food and the best in Northern hospitality.
When: August 14–16, 2026
Where: Ear Falls Park
Wake the Giant
A celebration of cultures and inclusivity, Marina Park’s music festival focuses on Indigenous artists and musicians. Discover live art installations, cultural experiences, local eats and an Indigenous craft market, plus a kids’ zone.
When: September 12–13, 2026
Where: Marina Park Drive, Thunder Bay
Ontario’s annual music season offers a diverse range of local concerts and outdoor live music experiences to thrill every festival fan, concert-goer and music lover.
Last updated: February 22, 2026