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Find your next favourite artists, at Western Canada festivals and events this June
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It’s never been easier to discover music, with catchy TikTok clips, personalized playlists, and algorithms dropping new tracks at your fingertips 24/7. But put down your phone, and there’s a whole other world waiting.
This June, Alberta and BC are overflowing with chances to experience music the way it was meant to be heard: live.
Because live music isn’t just something you listen to, it is a transformative experience. It’s the energy of the crowd, the stories artists share between songs, the unplanned moments that turn into lasting memories.
At a time when it’s getting harder to decipher what is AI and what is human online, live music is the best way to truly discover new music, and to support real musicians doing what they love. So step away from the feed, and go out to a festival or event across Western Canada.
You might just discover your next favourite band while creating memories that last a lifetime. Or, at the very least, last far longer than any late-night scroll.
Here are some artists to catch live and festivals you won’t want to miss in Alberta and BC this June.
DISCOVER YOUR NEW FAVOURITE ARTIST
All summer long, artists are hitting the road, playing festivals and events, and building real connections with fans. Here are some to check out this June.
Garret T. Willie at FIFA Fan Festival™
Blues rock artist from Vancouver, BC
Garret T. Willie has been steadily touring across Canada bringing his distinct sound of blues rock to venues and festivals for the past few years. The shows are high energy rock and roll shows and at only 26 years old, Garret’s stage presence is paralleled to someone who has been on the scene much longer.
I had the immense pleasure of catching Garret’s set at Wapiti Music Festival in Fernie, BC last year, and he was a showstopper that left the whole festival in awe. You don’t want to miss him!
Peter and the Wolves at KinFest
Rockabilly / Rock and Roll band from Calgary, AB
Though I haven’t yet been to a Peter and the Wolves concert, they are high up on my list of Western Canadian bands I want to see live, and I’m hoping that dream turns into reality this summer at KinFest.
His music is written in the style of the great rock n’ rollers from the 1950s and he started his band with the sole purpose of creating a hoppin’ dance floor at every show. I’m very hopeful I get to hop on that dance floor this summer, and you should too!
My Son the Hurricane at North Country Fair
High energy brass funk band from Niagara, ON
I had the pleasure of seeing My Son the Hurricane first perform live at Riverfest Elora in Ontario about 9 years ago.
They had an afternoon set that had the lead singer crowd-surfing in an inflatable raft and the whole audience kicking up dust on the dance floor. It was a blast.
Since then, I’ve had the pleasure of seeing them across Canada and the live show never disappoints. Definitely catch them wherever you can this summer for a guaranteed dance party.
FESTIVAL ROUND UP
June 4-7 Africa Fest / Victoria, BC
Get ready for an amazing in-person celebration of African culture, music, food, and art right in Victoria! The 13th edition promises even more fun, vibrant vibes, and unforgettable moments.
June 11 - July 19 FIFA Fan Festival™ / Vancouver, BC
Taking place at the PNE set against the city's mountainous backdrop. A free, accessible festival for all. Experience FIFA World Cup™ matches live on screens, then keep the celebration going with live music and entertainment from Canadian and global artists throughout the grounds.
June 12 Whistler Multicultural Festival / Whistler, BC
Started in 2013, the Whistler Multicultural Festival has become an annual tradition for locals, delivered by locals – immigrants and Canadian.
June 13 Pride Festival / Invermere, BC
Get ready to celebrate love, community, and all things colourful at Columbia Valley Pride Festival! Join the festivities at Pothole Park for an afternoon full of joy, connection, and celebration. Everyone is welcome!
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June 16-21 Medicine Hat Jazz Fest / Medicine Hat, AB
Medicine Hat Jazz boasts an incredible lineup of artists—from local gems to international stars—bringing you the very best in jazz. Enjoy free and ticketed events, club shows, workshops, the new Medalta Dance Party, and a community jam.
June 19-20 Beaumont Music Festival / Beaumont, AB
Canada’s Longest Running 100% all-Canadian Music Festival. From iconic headliners, to rising stars, the festival offers something for everyone. All ages festival only 10 minutes away from Edmonton.
June 19-21 KinFest / Millarville, AB
The Kinsmen Club of Calgary will be hosting their very first outdoor music festival fundraiser this year. Taking place at the Millarville Race Track Island campground. Showcasing 15 bands over 3 days. All ages and camping onsite.
June 19-21 North Country Fair / Driftpile, AB
A Summer Solstice Celebration and Music Festival. Features four stages with an eclectic, non-mainstream mix of folk, indie, rock, and world music. Family-friendly outdoor music festival with onsite camping.
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North Country Fair
The Brasstactics march through North Country Fair.
June 20 PUBLIC National Indigenous Peoples Day / Courtenay, BC
A day-long celebration of the contributions and unique cultures of First Nation, Inuit and Métis communities. Live music from acclaimed Indigenous artists, food and craft vendors, Elder and Youth activities, guided walks, cultural activities and knowledge sharing and more.
June 26-27 Beaver Fever Folk Festival / Beaver Mines, AB
Beaver Fever is a folk and grassroots music festival that aims to provide a venue for the folklore and culture of Southwestern Alberta. Featuring 11 musical acts and food and beverage onsite, including a famous pancake breakfast.
As for me, I'll be out on tour with Shred Kelly; be sure to watch for us in your neck of the woods. I'll also be writing this column through the summer to keep you informed of more opportunities to get live and local with Canadian musical artists. Stay tuned by signing up to the FestivalSeekers newsletter, so you don't miss out!
If you discover a new artist or have a festival experience worth sharing about, be sure to tag @festivalseekers #festivalseekers so we can engage as well. And as always, please share this story with your plus ones (and twos and threes) so they can join you on the dance floor.
About the writer Sage McBridge is lead singer of the band Shred Kelly, and an occasional contributor to FestivalSeekers.com, based out of Fernie, BC.
