Calgary Folk Music Festival 2025 – Calgary, Alberta
Event Location:
Prince’s Island Park, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Event Dates:
July 24–27, 2025
Event Opening Hours:
Daily from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Event Description:
Celebrating its 46th year, the Calgary Folk Music Festival is a cornerstone of Canada’s vibrant music scene. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Prince’s Island Park, this four-day event showcases a diverse array of musical talents from around the globe. With over 70 artists performing across multiple stages, attendees can immerse themselves in genres ranging from traditional folk to contemporary indie, world music, and beyond. The festival’s commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement makes it a must-attend event for music enthusiasts of all ages.
Event Highlights:
Main Stage Performances:
Experience electrifying performances from headlining artists such as CAKE, Los Lobos, and Patrick Watson.
Collaborative Sessions:
Unique to the Calgary Folk Fest, these sessions bring together diverse artists for spontaneous and memorable musical collaborations.
Family Zone:
A dedicated area offering interactive activities, crafts, and performances tailored for younger audiences, ensuring fun for the whole family.
Arts Market:
Explore a curated selection of local artisans and vendors showcasing handmade crafts, artworks, and unique merchandise.
Culinary Delights:
Savor a variety of food options from local vendors, offering everything from classic festival fare to international cuisines.
Event Visitors:
The festival attracts a diverse crowd of over 50,000 attendees, including local residents, national visitors, and international travelers. Its inclusive atmosphere and eclectic programming appeal to a broad audience, from dedicated folk aficionados to casual music lovers seeking a vibrant cultural experience.
Event Systems:
Stages:
Multiple stages are strategically placed throughout Prince’s Island Park, each equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems to enhance the live performance experience.
Production:
A dedicated team ensures seamless transitions between acts, high-quality audio-visual presentations, and overall event coordination to maintain the festival’s high standards.
Interactive Zones:
Designated areas within the festival grounds offer attendees opportunities to engage with various activities, including artist meet-and-greets, photo booths, and interactive installations.
Artists:
Headliners:
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CAKE
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Los Lobos
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Patrick Watson
Additional Acts:
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BADBADNOTGOOD
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Sierra Ferrell
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Michael Kiwanuka
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Moontricks
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Digging Roots
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Blue Moon Marquee
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Elisapie
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Dengue Fever
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The Heavy Heavy
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Katie Tupper
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Nick Shoulders
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Honeyfeet
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Ocie Elliott
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Les Mamans du Congo
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Madeleine Peyroux
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Steve Earle
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Reckless Kelly
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The Langan Band
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Tall Tall Trees
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Ríoghnach Connolly
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LA LOM
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Jake Vaadeland & The Sturgeon River Boys
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Bria Salmena
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Al Qahwa
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Aladean Kheroufi
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Bel and Quinn
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Billie Zizi
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Caracol
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Cedric Lightning
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Chris Pierce
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Christopher Gamble
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Cymande
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The Dust Collectors
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El Balcón
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Eliza Mary Doyle
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Emily Wurramara
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Empanadas Ilegales
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Fruition
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The Hearts
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Human Interest with Col Cseke
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Jairus Sharif
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Jennifer Castle
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Jolie Laide
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Jon McKiel
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Katy Kirby
Tickets:
Early Bird Pricing (Available until June 2):
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Thursday Single Day: $86
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Friday Single Day: $86
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Saturday Single Day: $97
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Sunday Single Day: $97
General Admission:
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Full-weekend and single-day passes available, granting access to all performances and general festival areas.
VIP Packages:
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Enhanced experiences including front-of-stage viewing, expedited entry, exclusive lounges, premium washroom facilities, and access to VIP after-parties.
Discounts:
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Children 12 and under: Free admission
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Accessible tickets and Fair Entry options available upon request
Accommodations:
Calgary offers a wide range of lodging options to suit various preferences and budgets. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and charming bed-and-breakfasts, visitors can find suitable accommodations throughout the city. Booking early is recommended due to high demand during the festival period.
Transportation:
By Air:
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Calgary International Airport (YYC) is the nearest major airport, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
By Public Transit:
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Calgary’s public transportation system provides convenient access to downtown and Prince’s Island Park.
By Car:
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Parking is limited near the festival grounds; attendees are encouraged to use public transit, cycling, or rideshare services.
Additional Notes:
Weather Considerations:
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July in Calgary typically features warm temperatures; attendees are advised to prepare for varying weather conditions, including potential rain.
Health and Safety:
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Medical stations and security personnel are present throughout the festival grounds to ensure attendee safety and well-being.
Accessibility:
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The festival is committed to providing an inclusive experience, offering accessible facilities and services for attendees with disabilities.
