Music Festival Guide: Top 10 Canadian Fests

Once the snow melts, the Canadian festival season kicks into full swing. Grab a sixer of Moslson XXX and let’s see what’s happening in the north this summer. Keep in mind this is only a small sampling — see the full list of upcoming music festivals in Canada.

1. Boonstock
Where: Gibbons, Alberta
When: June 27-June 30, 2013

O Canada! Front row seats at Boonstock.

The pride of Alberta returns for another rollicking midsummer weekend. The traditionally rock heavy show also boasts some of the best camping of the Canadian festivals with a late night dance tent and plenty of entertainment. It also takes place over Canada Day, which may make little sense to us Yankees, but we’re guessing it has something to do with partying.

2. Osheaga
Where: Montreal, Quebec
When: August 2-4, 2013

It was only after the three hour battle to the front that Todd realized he needed a bathroom.

Osheaga may be smack dab in the middle of Montreal, but doesn’t feel like a downtown festival due to the tranquil Île Sainte-Hélène. Of course, you’re sharing that peaceful location with 30,000 screaming manics. The island festival has featured big names in recent years like Arcade Fire, The Flaming Lips, Sonic Youth, Coldplay, Snoop Dogg, and The National. Scan the local paper for late night after party scenes throughout the city.

3. Calgary Stampede
Where: Calgary, Alberta
When: July 5-14, 2013

100 years of the Calgary Stampede.

It’s a music festival. It’s a rodeo. It’s a state fair. It’s been happening for over 100 years (not a typo, that’s two zeros). Over the course of a whopping ten days, this monster of entertainment will trample you with fun. Or you may actually get trampled by a horse — stay away from that rodeo fence.