The Canmore Folk Fest is the next event worth putting on your summer list if you like mountains and music that takes you back to your folky roots.
“Where music meets the mountains” has been the slogan of the festival for almost 50 years, making it the longest-running folk music festival in Alberta!
2024 continues that streak of bringing heritage to the forefront of pristine mountain view.
This year’s stellar lineup of musicians, workshops, artisan markets, and scenic trails lives up to the event’s goal of blending natural scenery and world-class performances.
But, the good folks running the show have implemented a few changes this year that hope to further enrich the traditions they’ve built on.
Drumroll, please, for the one we’ve all been waiting on… liquor-licensing the whole site so you can enjoy a cold one without having to leave your seat!
In the past, you had to head to the beer gardens away from the action to cool yourself with a brewsky.
The next change, in contrast to on-site booze, is opening the event up for more families to enjoy!
Children under 12 will now get free admission, and they’ve added a host of family-friendly performances and activities to keep all ages entertained.
And thirdly, they’ve added a local shuttle to and from the festival grounds! So you can take advantage of the new sipping options without hitting the road yourself later on. Plus, parking has always been a bit of an issue.
So, with these changes noted, let’s take a look at who’s playing this year!
Lineup
There’s a slew of names you know and trust and lesser-known gems in this year’s performers.
“[I’m] really excited to bring in big names like Blue Rodeo and Dan Mangan and also some lesser known but up and coming stars like Jeremy Dutcher and Lido Pimienta and Moon Tricks, so I think it’s going to be a really solid lineup,” organizer Klein-Waller told the Rocky Mountain Outlook.
“You may not know every single artist on the lineup, but you come, and you explore, and you learn new artists, and you make new favourites, and you see some really amazing workshops,” said Klein-Waller.
BuenRostro, Robert Adam, Mariel Buckley, Amy Nelson, and Elisapie are a few to check out beforehand so you can better plan your festival experience! You can also find the full lineup here.
Blue Rodeo
These Canadian legends have been rocking stages for four decades, blending country and rock into anthems that resonate with audiences across generations.
Their latest album, Many a Mile, is a testament to their enduring talent and unwavering stage presence.
Jeremy Dutcher
Prepare to be spellbound by Dutcher’s unique blend of classical opera and traditional Wolastoq songs.
His performances are more than concerts—they’re cultural journeys that weave together heritage and harmony in mesmerizing ways.
Many who have seen Dutcher claim that he has delivered one of the most memorable concerts they have ever seen.
Dan Mangan
Known for his poignant folk rock and captivating storytelling, Dan Mangan is a true troubadour whose music delves deep into the human experience.
Whether performing solo or with his band, Mangan’s magnetic presence is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Lido Pimienta
A force to be reckoned with, Lido Pimienta brings a blend of music and activism that challenges and inspires.
Catch her live while you can.
She continues to push boundaries and redefine what it means to be an artist in today’s world.
Leith Ross
From viral sensation to festival favourite, Leith Ross has carved out a niche with infectious tunes that resonate far beyond their Winnipeg roots.
Their rise is a testament to the power of music in connecting communities and hearts.
