5 Music Festivals in Winnipeg That Will Make Your Summer Unforgettable
Growing up in Winnipeg, I’ve always enjoyed the back-to-back music festivals every summer. The sounds, the lights, and the sheer magic of singing along with thousands of people—it’s an experience that’s hard to put into words but impossible to forget.
After seeing other cities here in Canada and beyond, I’ve come to realize that not every city has a vibrant music scene like ours. From jazz and folk to electronic beats, we’ve got a festival for nearly every genre.
If you want to party all summer long, here’s a list of the best music festivals in Winnipeg that you can attend.
TD Winnipeg International Jazz Festival
— Media credit: jazzwinnipeg
Website: https://www.jazzwinnipeg.com/
Date: Mid to late June
What to expect: Free live performances, workshops, and masterclasses
One of the most exciting celebrations I look forward to each year is the TD Winnipeg International Jazz Festival. Tens of thousands of music lovers flock to our city to listen to seasoned and upcoming artists from here and beyond.
For two weeks, jazz takes over downtown Winnipeg—our streets, clubs, and iconic music halls. What sets it apart is its impressive variety of artists, ranging from traditional ensembles to modern fusion bands, blues legends, and even foreign acts.
However, it’s not all about the concerts. Throughout the festival, there will also be workshops and masterclasses, perfect for aspiring and emerging artists to learn from the best in the industry.
Pro Tip:
Take advantage of the free outdoor concerts held in the Exchange District to get a taste of the festival without purchasing tickets. You can usually watch free shows at The Cube.
SOCA Reggae Festival
— Media credit: socareggaefest
Website: www.ticketgateway.com/socafest2024
Date: July
What to expect: Lively, colorful parades, food stalls, and good beer
Two of the most influential genres of music from the Caribbean, Soul of Calypso and Reggae, are celebrated at Winnipeg’s SOCA Reggae Festival. It’s now the largest Afro-Indo-Caribbean music festival in central Canada.
In the past few years, the music festival has grown into a vibrant community event—not just for the Caribbean diaspora but for everyone who appreciates good music and dancing.
For two to three days, you can attend concerts, dance performances, drum sessions, and other fun cultural activities at the Exchange District. Even if you can’t dance, you can still swing by to listen to good music and indulge in authentic Caribbean cuisine.
Pro Tip:
Wear comfortable shoes as there will be a lot of dancing! Whether you’re grooving to reggae’s laid-back rhythms or jumping up to the fast-paced beats of SOCA, the music will keep you moving.
Pro Tip:
Wear comfortable shoes as there will be a lot of dancing! Whether you’re grooving to reggae’s laid-back rhythms or jumping up to the fast-paced beats of SOCA, the music will keep you moving.
MEMETIC Festival
— Media credit: gabi_dance_fit
Website: https://www.memetic.ca/
Date: September
What to expect: Visual art installations, performances by local artists, and workshops
Short for Manitoba Electronic Music Exhibition of Technology, Innovation, and Creativity, MEMETIC is focused on digital creativity in all forms. You can expect an immersive experience that goes beyond just the music.
Performances are a blend of sound, visual art, and technology, making it a standout event in Winnipeg’s festival scene. It mostly highlights local talents across Manitoba, but you’ll also find DJs and electronic artists from around the globe.
Although it’s not as large as the other festivals, MEMETIC has a loyal and ever-growing following. It takes place over 3-4 days, with events spread across various venues in Winnipeg, including clubs, galleries, and outdoor spaces.
Pro Tip:
Explore the different venues to experience the full range of what Memetic has to offer. You can attend workshops and discussions on electronic music production, digital art, and technology.
Winnipeg Fringe Theater Festival
— Media credit: winnipegfringe
Website: https://www.winnipegfringe.com/
Date: July
What to expect: Live shows, international acts, food trucks, and kid-friendly activities
Winnipeg’s Fringe Theater Festival is a two-week-long celebration of independent theater. You can witness experimental and unconventional productions from local, national, and international companies—at an affordable price.
Performances are usually spread throughout the city, but the Exchange District will always be the heart of the festival. Aside from live performances at The Cube, you’ll see food vendors and artisans in a carnival-like atmosphere.
The festival is also a family-friendly celebration. If your little ones want to tag along, they can watch shows tailored for everyone under 12, play with balloons, and have their faces painted.
Pro Tip:
Get tickets for popular performances early because they sell out fast. Be sure to leave some room in your schedule for spontaneous picks as you might discover new gems in the lineup!
Winnipeg Folk Festival
— Media credit: winnipegfolkfestival
Website: https://www.winnipegfolkfestival.ca/
Date: Second week of July
Venue: Birds Hill Provincial Park
What to expect: Well-known headliners, artisan markets, food vendors, camping areas, and family-friendly activities
Founded in 1974, the Winnipeg Folk Festival was created as a one-time event to celebrate the city’s 100th anniversary. Now, it’s one of the biggest outdoor music festivals in North America, drawing tens of thousands of guests every year.
Unlike other festivals on our list, this one doesn’t take place downtown. You have to drive to Birds Hill Provincial Park to experience music and nature come together in this fun, community-oriented event.
What makes it very unique is that people camp at the park. You can pitch a tent up on their campground, which can accommodate up to 6,000 people, so you won’t miss out on the performances, workshops, and other festivities.
Pro Tip:
Don’t forget to bring your own instrument if you play. Impromptu jam sessions are a common and cherished part of the folk festival culture.