Manitoba has no shortage of music events this summer. Whether it’s a one day festival or a week-long celebration, there are a number of musical events to choose from. So, if it’s jazz, rock, folk, country or any other musical style you’re looking for, here is a guided list of where to find some of the best festivals across the province this summer.
Central Plains
The Back Forty Folk Festival
Location: Morden – Morden Park
Bring the family for this one day event that features folk, bluegrass, world music and family entertainment. Admission is $15; children 12 and under are free if accompanied by an adult. Tickets at Thornview Grocery.
Sunday June 7 from Noon until Dusk
Winnipeg and Area
Jazz on the Rooftop
Location: Winnipeg – Winnipeg Art Gallery
Celebrating its 31st year, this popular summer jazz series will be held in the WAG's rooftop sculpture garden. This year, the performances will feature such musical artists as The Kevin Curtis Sextet, The Ron Paley Big Band, The Michelle Gregoire/Dave Lawton Quintet, Papa Mambo, The Brent Parkin Band and Walle Larsson. There will be a BBQ before each performance for $18.50. Concerts start at 7:30 pm. WAG members $17; Adult $19; Student and Senior $18. Tickets include admission to the Gallery on the day of the concert.
June 4 & 18; July 16 &30; August 13 & 27
Groove - FM Jazz Winnipeg Festival
Location: Winnipeg – Various Venues
The 20th annual festival will take place throughout the city and will provide 10 days of great live jazz, blues and soul. Performers will include Al Green, Buddy Guy, Kenny Werner Quartet and more! For ticket prices, check out the website.
June 26 – July 5
Location: Birds Hill Provincial Park
One of North America’s premier outdoor music festivals, the Winnipeg Folk Festival will feature some of the world’s best artists. Elvis Costello, Xavier Rudd and Neko Case are just a few of over 60 performers that will be gracing the stages. With daytime and evening performances, there will also be a family area, artisan tents and camping available. Please check the website for ticket prices and packages.
July 8 – July 12
Eastern Region
Summer Winds Family Music Festival
Location: Victoria Beach
This two day event will feature live music performances, a carnival and skate boarding demonstrations. Performers will include The Burning Kettles, Mike Bilenki, Dust Rhinos and more! Check the website for ticket info.
July 24 & 25
3rd Annual Fire 'n Water Music Festival
Location: Lac du Bonnet - Lac du Bonnet Community Centre
July 24, 25 & 26
This weekend event includes a farmers market with a free music stage Saturday and Sunday. There will be evening cabaret performances by Juno nominated and Western Canada Music Award winning bands each night at 7:30. A variety of talented musicians such as Kayla Luky, The Dust Rhinos, and The Magnificent Seven will also be performing.
Location: Beausejour – The Moonrise Cabana
The 14th annual indoor/outdoor blues, rock and roots music festival will take place in a beautiful 120-acre park on the banks of the Brokenhead River. Come check out some great live music while enjoying the scenery. Ticket prices vary, please check website.
August 6 – August 9
Western Region
Brandon Folk Music & Art Festival
Location: Brandon – Keystone Centre Grounds
Featuring Canadian artists, this festival will be celebrating 25 years of music, art and community spirit. Some of Canada’s best indie artists will be performing bluegrass and folk.
July 24 – July 26
These are just a few of the wonderful music festivals and events Manitoba will be hosting this summer. There are also a number of concerts and performances taking place in Ontario, B.C., Alberta and Saskatchewan.
So make the most of your summer and get out there and enjoy the music!
Jennifer Berube - I am a freelance writer based in Victoria, B.C. I graduated from the Humber College Journalism program and have worked as a reporter for a ...
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