Find Your Groove at These Top Ontario Music Festivals
Ontario music festivals are known for their lively atmosphere, diverse lineup of artists, and vibrant performances. From the pulsating beats of EDM at Veld to the soulful sounds of blues at Ottawa Bluesfest, there’s a festival to suit every musical taste. With so many incredible events across the province, deciding which ones to attend can be difficult. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of some of the top music festivals in Ontario that will guarantee an unforgettable experience. So, whether you’re a seasoned festival goer or a first timer, grab your camping gear, pack your dancing shoes, and explore the best music festivals Ontario has to offer.
Veld Music Festival: Get Ready to Rave at Toronto’s Veld Music Festival
Get ready to dance at Veld Music Festival, one of Canada’s top electronic dance music festivals. Held annually at Toronto’s Downsview Park during the first weekend of August, this two-day event features over 30 artists across three stages. Since 2012, Veld has hosted dance music legends like Tiesto, Armin Van Buuren, Martin Garrix, and many more.
With high-energy performances, cutting-edge production, and epic soundscapes, Veld attracts thousands of fans from across Canada and beyond. From the main stage to the underground, Veld offers diverse musical styles and immersive experiences. With world-class production and thrilling performances, Veld is the perfect place to let loose while taking in the best of electronic dance music.
Boots & Hearts Music Festival: Get Your Country on at Boots & Hearts Music Festival
When it comes to Ontario country music festivals, Boots & Hearts is in a category of its own. This summer music festival takes place annually in August at the picturesque Burl’s Creek Event Grounds in Oro-Medonte, Ontario. Since its inception in 2012, the festival has drawn some of the biggest names in country music, including Blake Shelton, Keith Urban, and Tim McGraw, to name a few. But Boots & Hearts is much more than just a music festival. Attendees can also enjoy on-site camping, delicious food trucks, and interesting vendor booths.
Perhaps what sets this festival apart the most is the sense of community that’s fostered here. Whether you’re catching up with old friends or making new ones, there’s a feeling of togetherness that’s hard to replicate anywhere else.
TD Toronto Jazz Festival: Swing to the Rhythm at the TD Toronto Jazz Festival
The TD Toronto Jazz Festival is a world-renowned event that occurs every summer in the heart of downtown Toronto, making it one of the top Ontario summer music festivals. The festival has been running for over 30 years, hosting nearly 500,000 attendees and 1,500 musicians from around the world over ten days. From big band to bebop, attendees can enjoy a diverse range of jazz styles in various venues, including outdoor stages, clubs, and concert halls.
But the festival isn’t just about the music – it’s also an opportunity to experience the vibrant culture of Toronto. With free events, workshops, and street performances throughout the festival, attendees can explore the city and its rich history. What sets the TD Toronto Jazz Festival apart is its accessibility, with many events being free or low-cost, making it easy for everyone to enjoy. For anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience at one of the top Ontario summer music festivals, the TD Toronto Jazz Festival is not to be missed.
Canadian Music Week: Celebrate the Best of Canadian Music
Canadian Music Week (CMW) is a multi-day celebration of the best in Canadian music that takes place each year in venues big and small across the city of Toronto. This event has been promoting Canadian talent since 1981 — usually in the first few days of June — and continues to be an influential platform for new and established artists to showcase their skills. The festival attracts a diverse range of artists, covering an eclectic mix of genres such as indie, rock, and hip-hop, among others.
In addition to the music, the festival also features conference sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities that provide an inside look at the music industry and a chance for emerging artists to connect with industry leaders. With its emphasis on promoting Canadian talent and fostering the growth of the music industry, Canadian Music Week is a must-attend event for music lovers and industry professionals alike.
Ottawa Bluesfest: Experience the Best of Blues, Rock, and Pop Music in the Heart of Canada’s Capital
The Ottawa Bluesfest is a 10-day music festival taking place in downtown Ottawa, Canada, every July. The event has been running for over 25 years and has become one of the largest blues festivals in North America. This comes as no surprise when you consider the names that have graced the stage over the years, including The Rolling Stones, Foo Fighters, and Eric Clapton, among others.
While the festival’s lineup historically focused on blues music, it has increasingly showcased mainstream pop, hip-hop, reggae, and rock acts in recent years. Along with showcasing international musical talent, Bluesfest is a non-profit charitable organization with year-round music education initiatives such as Blues in the Schools, Be in the Band, and previously, the Bluesfest School of Music and Art, augmenting a focus on developing local artists in the Ottawa region. With its prime location in the heart of Ottawa, attendees can also take advantage of the city’s many attractions and explore the surrounding area during their visit. The Ottawa Bluesfest is a must-attend event for any music lover in search of a unique and unforgettable festival experience.
Hillside Festival: Experience the Magic of Hillside Festival’s Laid-Back Vibe
Nestled in the heart of the Guelph Lake Conservation Area, Hillside Festival is a unique and laid-back music festival that’s known for its focus on community, sustainability, and social justice. Re-occurring yearly in July, it was founded in 1984, quickly becoming an annual gathering place for music lovers and activists from across Canada and beyond. Hillside’s lineup features a mix of international and local talent, spanning genres like folk, indie, and world music.
However, it’s not just about the music; the festival also offers a range of workshops, art installations, and food vendors that create a holistic experience for attendees. The festival prides itself on being family-friendly with plenty of activities and entertainment for all ages. With its picturesque setting, welcoming community, and commitment to social and environmental issues, Hillside Festival offers a magical experience you won’t find anywhere else.