Top Outdoor Music Festivals in BC This Summer

Sometimes the best way to get in touch with your musical side is underneath a crystal clear summer sky—or better yet, close to the water and mountains our province is known for. And thankfully, there are amazing outdoor music festivals all summer long to provide just that! 

With over a month left of the season we’ve got a lineup of exciting festivals to mark up your calendar before the cooler months arrive. British Columbia is a premier destination for music lovers who are itching to get outside and listen to some insanely talented Canadian musicians.

 

Shambhala in Salmo, July 26-29

One of Canada’s premiere electronic music and arts festivals, Shambhala will have 200+ artists spread out across 6 stages. Set up on the Salmo River Ranch, just 6km out of Salmo, this venue is tucked between the river and the mountains, offering all the best views and vibes BC has to offer.

 

Filberg Festival in Comox, August 2-4

Set in the beautiful backdrop of Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park in Comox, this festival is jam-packed with outstanding Canadian talent. Sit amongst the trees, wander the gardens, and enjoy a diverse musical lineup from local to top recording artists—who knows, maybe you’ll discover your next favourite Canadian performer! And to top it off? They also have over 100 talented artisans with plenty of goods to peruse.

 

HAPPYLAND Festival in Vancouver, August 4

An event to celebrate self-expression, music, and LGBTQAI2S+ community spirit, HAPPYLAND Festival – Pride at Playland is the best place to show off your colours. With a diverse musical lineup, free rides, and delicious fairground treats, this event is sure to leave you dancing all evening long.

 

Nanaimo Blues Festival, August 8-11

Keeping the blues alive and well, the Nanaimo Blues Festival is a four-day event in the beautiful Maffeo Sutton Park right along Nanaimo’s Inner Harbour. Sit back and enjoy local, provincial, national, and international musicians all while taking in the gorgeous ocean inlet and surrounding islands.

 

Edge of the World Festival on Haida Gwaii, August 9-11

Set up on the Tlell Fall Fairgrounds on Haida Gwaii, this is a “singular west coast festival experience” with three days of amazing musical talent. Edge of the World first launched in 1978, this year they’re focusing on a pay-what-you-can model, and allowing children under 12 in for free—as long as they’re accompanied by an adult!

 

Reverb – Phillips Backyard Music Festival in Victoria, August 9-11

Known to be an electrifying and inclusive music festival in Victoria, Reverb is held each year in the heart of Phillips Craft Brewery. A 19+ exclusive event, this festival runs all day long and comes with food trucks, a wide selection of beverages including non-alcoholic options, and a staggering lineup of musical talent.

 

Active / Passive Vol. 6 on Galiano Island, August 9-11

Since 2019, Active/Passive Festival has run a day-long slow concert with ambient and experimental music on Galiano Island. Set up in a rural and remote location only accessible via ferry, it’s the perfect way to explore the island’s outdoor wonders all while enjoying amazing performances. Children and youth are admitted for free!

 

Rifflandia Festival in Victoria, September 13-15

The perfect end of summer festival, Rifflandia has been jamming it out in Victoria since 2008. One of the longest running large-scale music and arts festivals in Western Canada, there are always insane lineups to be found when you grab your tickets. And taking place in our province’s capital? Just icing on the cake