CANMORE – Alberta’s longest-running folk music festival returns this Aug. 2 - 4 with an impressive lineup of artists from near and far.
Hitting the mainstage are Kishi Bashi, Cree artist Aysanabee, Corb Lund and Basia Bulat.
“We are thrilled to welcome an incredible lineup of artists this year, including Frazey Ford, Corb Lund, Basia Bulat, Mary Gauthier, David Francey and Donovan Woods,” said Jenna Klein-Waller, executive director at the Canmore Folk Festival.
“These artists represent a dynamic mix of folk, roots, Americana and singer-songwriter traditions.”
Local talent includes performers such as The Three Sisters, Banff’s Amelie Patterson, Canmore’s Caroline Whyte and Mountain Mansion.
“Each year, we ensure that touring artists from Canmore, Banff and the Bow Valley are included in our lineup alongside emerging and established acts from across Canada and beyond,” said Klein-Waller.
“Eighty per cent of our line-up features first-time performers at the festival, bringing fresh new energy and new voices to our stage.”
This year’s emerging artists focus on Canadian talent such as folk duo Blue Moon Marquee and JUNO-nominated artist Julian Taylor.
“These artists are making waves in the folk, roots and indie scene,” said Klein-Waller.
Over the three-day festival, 50 artists will perform at Canmore’s Centennial Park and the offsite pub stage at Miners’ Union Hall.
Launched in 2024, the festival is bringing back its On-It bus partnership. The Folk Fest Express provides round-trip transportation from three locations in Calgary to the festival grounds in Canmore. The shuttle departs from South Calgary, downtown Calgary and the Crowfoot LRT station.
Pilot programs focused on reducing the festival’s environmental impact and managing waste are also being introduced this year, according to Klein-Waller.
“At the heart of these efforts is a commitment to long-term sustainability,” she said.
The festival is expected to see about 5,000 people each day, according to Margo Petroff, communications manager at the Canmore Folk Festival.
“Tickets start to sell quickly the closer we get to the event. Last year, the Monday sold out,” said Petroff.
Weekend and day passes are available for purchase. Kids 12 and under are free.
“We can’t wait to welcome everyone back for another incredible year,” said Petroff.
Tickets are available at: https://canmorefolkfestival.ticketpro.ca/en/pages/category_canmore2025.
