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8 Epic Canadian Country Music Festivals You Can’t Miss

Music Industry

Canadian Country Festivals
10 Apr, 2025

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A country music festival isn’t just a concert—it’s a full-on celebration of country culture, where fans come together for live performances, camping, and unforgettable memories.

Canada, with its deep-rooted country music scene, hosts some of North America’s top festivals, drawing world-class artists and thousands of passionate country music lovers.

From the high-energy Calgary Stampede to the electrifying Country Thunder Saskatchewan, these Canadian Country festivals blend music, rodeo, and community spirit like no other.

Get ready to discover the ultimate country music experiences that every true fan needs to attend.

List of Best Canadian Country Festivals

1: Dauphin’s Countryfest

Location: Dauphin, Manitoba

Genre: Country, Roots, Bluegrass, Blues, Rock n’ Roll

Active Years: 1990 – Present

When in 2025? June 26 – 29

As Canada’s longest-running country music festival, Dauphin’s Countryfest is a must-attend event for country music lovers. Taking place on the July long weekend, this four-day, five-night festival is Manitoba’s largest outdoor music event, welcoming 14,000 attendees daily.

This Canadian Country Festival features three stages showcasing over 60 artists from local talent to Nashville superstars. Previously, top male country singers like Eric Church, Florida Georgia Line, Paul Brandt, and Luke Combs have enhanced the glory of this festival.

It operates as a not-for-profit festival, keeping the community spirit alive while delivering top-tier entertainment.

Highlights of Dauphin’s Countryfest

  • Diverse Lineup – A mix of country, bluegrass, blues, and rock for a well-rounded music experience.
  • Unbeatable Atmosphere – Camping, multiple stages, and a tight-knit country music community.
  • Rich Tradition – With over three decades of history, it remains one of Canada’s most beloved country festivals.

2: Calgary Stampede

Genre: Rodeo, Exhibition, Festival

Active Years: 1912 – Present

When in 2025? July 4 – 13

Location: Calgary, Alberta

Every July, Calgary transforms into the epicenter of Western culture as the Calgary Stampede takes over the city.

Known as The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, this legendary 10-day festival blends world-class rodeo, electrifying concerts, high-speed chuckwagon racing, and a vibrant midway into an unforgettable experience.

Founded in 1912 by Guy Weadick, this Canadian Country Festival merged with the Calgary Industrial Exhibition in 1923 and became one of the world’s most iconic rodeo and country music festivals.

It welcomes over one million visitors annually, immersing them in thrilling competitions, agricultural showcases, Indigenous cultural exhibitions, and citywide celebrations.

Inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 2008, it continues to attract international visitors, offering a one-of-a-kind blend of tradition, sportsmanship, and entertainment.

If you’re a true country music fan or simply love thrilling, high-energy festivals, this is the ultimate Canadian experience.

Highlights of Calgary Stampede

  • Epic Rodeo Action – Witness elite bull riding, steer wrestling, and barrel racing at one of the world’s biggest rodeos.
  • Star-Studded Concerts – Enjoy top-tier country, rock, and pop performances at the Stampede’s music festival.
  • Cowtown Spirit – The entire city joins in with Western-themed events, street parties, and legendary pancake breakfasts.

3: Cavendish Beach Music Festival

Genre: Country

Active Years: 2009 – Present

When in 2025? July 10-12

Location: Cavendish, Prince Edward Island

Set against the breathtaking coastal scenery of Prince Edward Island, the Cavendish Beach Music Festival (CBMF) is one of the famous Canadian country music events. Launched in 2009, this three-day festival has grown into a must-visit destination, attracting fans from across North America.

It features a state-of-the-art permanent stage, built in 2011 to accommodate bigger crowds and world-class performances. The festival has also hosted country popular singers like Taylor Swift, Keith Urban, Blake Shelton, and Luke Bryan.

It draws crowds of up to 35,000 per day, offering both intimate sets and high-energy headline performances.

Highlights of the Cavendish Beach Music Festival

  • Unforgettable Lineups – Showcasing the biggest names in country music year after year.
  • Coastal Festival Vibes – A unique blend of beachfront relaxation and high-energy performances.
  • Bucket-List Experience – A perfect summer getaway for country music lovers, combining music, nature, and unforgettable memories.

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4: Country Thunder Saskatchewan

Location: Craven, Saskatchewan

Genre: Country Music

Active Years: 1983 – Present

When in 2025? July 10-13

Set in the scenic Qu’Appelle Valley, Country Thunder Saskatchewan is one of Canada’s most legendary country music festivals. Originally launched as the Big Valley Jamboree in 1983, it rebranded in 2016 and became part of the renowned Country Thunder Festival series.

This Canadian Country festival has hosted iconic country artists like Keith Urban, Garth Brooks, and Eric Church. It features multiple stages, vibrant camping zones, and high-energy performances.

Furthermore, it is home to the famous “Gopher Run,” during which fans rush to secure the best festival seats.

Highlights of Country Thunder Saskatchewan

  • Prairie Festival Vibes – Set in a stunning valley, offering breathtaking scenery and great acoustics.
  • Unforgettable Lineups – Welcomes country music’s biggest names year after year.
  • Immersive Festival Culture – A mix of music, camping, and a one-of-a-kind community atmosphere.

5: Big Valley Jamboree

Location: Camrose, Alberta

Genre: Country Music

Active Years: 1992 – Present

When in 2025? July 31 – August 3

Big Valley Jamboree (BVJ) is one of Canada’s premier country music festivals. It brings together thousands of fans every August long weekend for four days of top-tier country music and outdoor fun.

Since 1992, BVJ has hosted legendary artists, including country singers like Tim McGraw, Gary Allan, and even Kevin Costner.

Known for its high-energy performances, lively camping scene, and multiple stages, it delivers an unmatched festival experience.

Beyond the music, BVJ plays a key role in boosting the Camrose economy, generating millions in revenue each year.

BVJ is the ultimate destination for those who crave authentic country music, an electric atmosphere, and unforgettable summer memories.

Highlights of Big Valley Jamboree

  • World-Class Lineup – Features top country artists and rising stars.
  • Legendary Festival Vibes – A massive camping culture, beer gardens, and nonstop entertainment.
  • Community & Tradition – A beloved event that has stood strong despite challenges like the 2009 stage collapse and weather disruptions.

6: Sunfest Country Music Festival

Location: Lake Cowichan, BC

Genre: Country

Active Years: 2000 – Present

When in 2025? July 31 – August 3

Held on the BC Day Long Weekend, Sunfest Country Music Festival is Western Canada’s largest country music festival, drawing thousands of fans each summer. Nestled in the 172-acre Laketown Ranch, this festival offers a stunning natural backdrop paired with world-class country performances.

Past headliners include Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, and Eric Church, making it a must-visit for country music lovers. Furthermore, this Canadian Country festival features premier camping options, on-site activities, and an unbeatable festival atmosphere.

Highlights of Sunfest

  • Massive Lineups – Hosts international country superstars and emerging talent.
  • Breathtaking Venue – Set against the lush landscapes of Vancouver Island.
  • Unmatched Festival Vibes – A perfect mix of live music, camping, and outdoor excitement.

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7: Boots and Hearts Music Festival

Location: Burl’s Creek Event Grounds, Oro-Medonte, Ontario

Genre: Country

Active Years: 2012 – Present

When in 2025? Aug 7-10

As one of the largest Canadian Country Festivals and the second-largest in North America, Boots and Hearts is the ultimate summer event for country music fans.

Since its launch in 2012 by Republic Live Inc., the festival has gained national recognition, winning multiple “Festival of the Year” awards from the CCMA and Canadian Music Week.

The festival draws over 45,000 fans annually for an unforgettable four-day experience and features top country superstars like Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton, and Carrie Underwood.

Highlights of Boots and Hearts

  • Massive Lineup – Showcases A-list country artists and emerging talent.
  • Legendary Camping Culture – A full festival experience with tailgates, bonfires, and nonstop entertainment.
  • Award-Winning Event – Consistently recognized as one of Canada’s top music festivals.

8: Lasso Montréal

Genre: Country Music

Active Years: 1995 – Present

When in 2025? 15 – 16 August

Location: Montreal, Quebec

Set against the dynamic cityscape of Montréal, Lasso Montréal is North America’s leading urban country music festival. Hosted at Espace 67 in Parc Jean-Drapeau, this two-day event blends classic country sounds with modern hits, offering a fresh twist on the genre.

The festival features high-energy performances with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River. It brings country music to the heart of one of the world’s top festival cities, alongside Montréal’s renowned summer events.

Highlights of Lasso Montréal

  • Urban Festival Experience – Enjoy world-class country acts in a vibrant city setting.
  • Breathtaking Location – Stunning open-air venue with scenic river views.
  • Diverse Lineup – A mix of country legends and fresh new talent.

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FAQs

1. What are the top Canadian country festivals?

Some of the best Canadian country music festivals include:

  • Boots and Hearts Music Festival (Ontario)
  • Calgary Stampede (Alberta)
  • Big Valley Jamboree (Alberta)
  • Cavendish Beach Music Festival (Prince Edward Island)
  • Dauphin’s Countryfest (Manitoba)
  • Sunfest Country Music Festival (British Columbia)
  • Country Thunder Saskatchewan (Saskatchewan)

2. Where can I find the best country festivals in Canada?

Canadian country music festivals are held across various provinces:

  • Alberta – Calgary Stampede, Big Valley Jamboree
  • Ontario – Boots and Hearts Music Festival
  • Manitoba – Dauphin’s Countryfest
  • Prince Edward Island – Cavendish Beach Music Festival
  • British Columbia – Sunfest Country Music Festival
  • Saskatchewan – Country Thunder Saskatchewan

Each festival offers unique experiences, from rodeo-infused celebrations to scenic outdoor concerts.

3. Which Canadian country festival has won awards?

Boots and Hearts Music Festival has won multiple “Festival of the Year” awards from the Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) and Canadian Music Week. It is recognized as Canada’s largest country music festival, consistently attracting top global country artists.

4. What is the biggest country music festival in Canada?

Boots and Hearts Music Festival is Canada’s largest country music festival, drawing over 45,000 fans annually. Held in Oro-Medonte, Ontario, it features:

  • Top international country stars
  • Immersive camping experiences
  • Multiple entertainment zones

5. How long do Canadian country festivals last?

Most Canadian country music festivals last between three to four days. However, some extend longer:

  • Calgary Stampede – 10 days (July)
  • Boots and Hearts, Big Valley Jamboree, Sunfest – 4 days
  • Cavendish Beach Music Festival, Country Thunder Saskatchewan – 3 days