BY: JESSICA BEUKER
In the last decade or so,music festivals have grown significantly in popularity. What was once considered a pastime of the hippie culture – grown out of notable music festivals such as Woodstock – has gone on to become a worldwide trend, embraced by music lovers of every kind.
From folk to rock, electronic to indie, and pop to country, music festivals provide an array of bucket list-worthy musical talent all in one glorified, magical weekend. Since summertime is nearly upon us, that means that festival season is about to rear it’s beautiful head.
When you’re having trouble deciding which concert to spend your hard earned dollars on, that’s where music festivals step in and take away some of the pressure. Sure, they’re a bit more expensive than just a regular concert, plus the additional cost of transportation and accommodation if you don’t live right near by, but they are a steal of a deal in the long run, as you get to see dozens on your favourite artists all in one place.
Not to mention that the atmosphere alone is enough to make you want to go to one. Music festival has a very distinct culture. The people who attend are ready to have a good time, listen to great music and create memories that will last a lifetime. Something about being at a music festival is very freeing; you have no obligations, no commitments, no work or errands and no responsibilities. Your sole purpose is to have fun and listen to great music.
So what are you waiting for?! Music festival tickets typically go on sale in early spring or early summer, depending on the date of the festival and they sell out pretty quickly so you’re not going to want to second guess yourself.
To prove to you just how awesome music festivals are, and to help you narrow it down to which ones you’d be interested in attending, we’ve made a list of the best country music festivals in Canada. You can thank us later.
1. Country Thunder Music Festival (formerly known as Craven Country Jamboree) – Craven, Saskatchewan
Yes, this country music festival is in the middle of nowhere. Yes, you get to camp out for four days (July 12-15) while listening to a stellar lineup that includes Dierks Bentley, Luke Bryan, Big & Rich, Chris Young, Dean Brody, Jess Moskaluke, and many more. Yes, it almost always rains every year turning the giant prairie field into a giant mud puddle. What’s not to love?
2. Boots and Hearts – Oro-Medonte, Ontario
Boots and Hearts runs from August 9-12, which give you four whole days of country music goodness. This year’s lineup includes Florida Georgia Line, Alan Jackson, Thomas Rhett, Dallas Smith and Madeline Merlo. It’ll be a boot-stomping good time.
3. Calgary Stampede – Calgary, Alberta
The Calgary Stampede is not just a music festival, but a variety of favourite country events including a rodeo, a derby, a fair and a variety of musical talent. The Stampede runs for 10 days, from July 6-15. The only musical guests released so far are Luke Bryan and Brad Paisley with the other musical announcements coming soon. Last year’s lineup included Chad Brownlee, Doc Walker, Jess Moskaluke and Corb Lund.
