The Folk Fest sur le canal was founded in 2008 by Hello Darlin’ Productions and Hyperbole Music to showcase folk, roots, and bluegrass music at a summertime event. The inaugural Folk Fest on the canal was a one-day event that attracted approximately 500 festival-goers. The Festival has since evolved into a multi-day event, complete with free outdoor programming and ticketed indoor concerts. In 2017, the Folk Fest attracted more than 30,000 music fans. Over the years, the Folk Fest has brought in folk pioneers such as John Sebastian (The Lovin’ Spoonful), Peter Yarrow (Peter, Paul and Mary), Tim O’Brien, Jim Kweskin, Tom Rush, Eric Andersen, and Roger McGuinn (The Byrds).

Family and community have always been an important part of the Folk Fest sur le canal. Local musicians, both emerging and established, are always featured throughout the festival.

In 2012, the Lhasa de Sela Youth stage was added, giving young folk musicians, dancers, and storytellers the chance to perform in a semi-professional environment. In 2013, the Folk Fest created the Lhasa de Sela Youth Bursary for Excellence in Music to encourage young local musicians to pursue their dreams. The bursary has since been awarded to 10 deserving recipients.

Artisan Alley
The Folk Fest sur le canal welcomes art in all its forms. Every year the Folk Fest is proud to create an area devoted to Montreal’s artists and craftspeople. Be sure to stop by and take home something unique!
Friday, June 15: 5 pm to 8 pm
Saturday, June 16: Noon to 8 pm
Sunday, June 17: Noon to 8 pm

Family Area
Activities and programming designed for kids. Be sure to head over to the family area for:
Inflatable structures – Watch your kids run, bounce, and play on inflatable structures!
Arts & crafts – The creative juices are always flowing at our arts and crafts table!
Face painting – Free face painting—a hit with all ages!
Games – Check out our games, open to all—kids and parents alike!
Music – Don’t forget to check out the concert schedule. The Folk Fest presents a diverse lineup of musicians, including kids performers.

It’s no wonder that the Folk Fest sur le canal is considered a fixture on the Quebec music scene and the most family-friendly music festival in town!

The main festival grounds are at the Centennial Esplanade a beautiful green space along the Lachine Canal at the corner of Saint-Patrick & Pitt streets (H3J 1X4).

For more information, including the full list of performing artists, visit: www.montrealfolkfest.com

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