The setting: There are scenes for music lovers of all kinds at the six stages on an island in downtown Montreal.
The scene: Tuck a daisy in your hair for this Lollapalooza-esque weekend, buzzing with good energy, great music and an enormous crowd.
Insider’s tip: If you have a couple extra bucks to spare, buy the Osheaga Experience. It gets you access to a reserved viewing area, a catered dinner by Chuck Hughes and more.
Top acts: Outkast, Lorde, Arctic Monkeys.
More info: osheaga.com.
The setting: Canada’s most scenic festival is nestled between the awe-inspiring Stawamus Chief cliff and spectacular Howe Sound.
The scene: Get into the action down by the stage or lie on a blanket farther out on the grass. Reserve a private Musicbox by the stage for an exclusive experience.
Insider’s tip: The festival’s going cashless this year. Avoid lines by loading up your wristband before you arrive.
Top acts: Arcade Fire, Eminem, Bruno Mars.
More info: squamishfestival.com.
The setting: Kick off your shoes to dance or chill out on the open grassy slope overlooking the stage at this family-friendly fest.
The scene: Feel your favourite skirt float around you as you sway to the chill folk sounds.
Insider’s tip: Score a better seat by entering the tarp lottery. If you win, you’ll get in the gates sooner, plus you’ll have the perfect (dry) spot to kick back and enjoy the music.
Top acts: Ben Harper and Charlie Musselwhite, Ben Howard, Blue Rodeo.
More info: edmontonfolkfest.org.
The setting: Smack dab in the middle of the “biggest little street in North America,” this fest draws over 40,000 partiers.
The scene: Croon to the tunes on the outdoor stage, and, as the song says, “There’ll be dancin’ in the street.” Tuckered out? Dip into one of the 23 bars that line the block.
Insider’s tip: With a strict no-readmission policy in effect, make sure that once you get in, you’re ready to spend the night.
Top acts: Serena Ryder, the Wallflowers, Dropkick Murphys.
More info: georgestreetlive.ca.
The setting: Settle into a lawn chair for a night’s medley of music, nestled among the trees of downtown Victoria Park.
The scene: Swing your favourite tote over your shoulder to stock up on artisanal goods, or get busy with the kids and make your own crafts (from magic wands to hobby horses) in the fab children’s area.
Insider’s tip: Can’t make the festival? No problem. Regina Folk Fest has a concert series running all year.
Top acts: Serena Ryder, Indigo Girls, Sam Roberts Band.
More info: reginafolkfestival.com.
The setting: Just a quick ferry ride from Kingston across the St. Lawrence, Wolfe Island feels worlds away. It’s a private backyard concert for you and 1,500 of your closest friends.
The scene: Pull on your cut-offs and faded concert tee, and get ready to celebrate the best of Canadian music.
Insider’s tip: No need to worry about catching the ferry. This year passes include a ride aboard the Festival Express boat. The bar and live DJ will help get the party started.
Top acts: The Rural Alberta Advantage, k-os, Shad.
More info: wolfeislandmusicfestival.com.
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