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Winnipeg Folk Fest 2026
Winnipeg Folk Fest 2026 Lineup Announced for July Festival at Birds Hill Park
Winnipeg Folk Fest 2026 will take place July 9 to 12 at Birds Hill Provincial Park as the long running summer festival returns for its 51st edition. The event continues its tradition of bringing together a wide range of folk, indie, and global artists while maintaining the community driven atmosphere that has defined the festival for decades.
Organizers say the 2026 edition focuses on balancing familiar sounds with new discoveries as the festival moves into its next chapter. Artistic Director Chris Frayer said the goal was to keep the recognizable spirit of the festival while introducing artists who have never appeared at the event before.
The four day gathering will once again take place on Treaty 1 territory and within the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.
Headliners and Featured Artists
Among the major artists scheduled for Winnipeg Folk Fest 2026 are Of Monsters and Men, who will make their first appearance at the festival. Their performance arrives during the 150th anniversary of the Icelandic settlement in Manitoba, a moment that carries special significance for many in the province.
The lineup also includes Lucy Dacus, known both for her solo work and as a member of boygenius alongside Phoebe Bridgers and Julien Baker. Other featured artists include Father John Misty, Stephen Wilson Jr., politically focused songwriter Jesse Welles, and electronic indie duo Sylvan Esso.
Additional highlights include appearances by Canadian roots artist Kathleen Edwards, Montreal indie rock band Wolf Parade, and Swedish experimental rock group GOAT. British songwriter Billy Bragg also returns to the festival for the first time since 2012.
Special Programming and Workshops
Alongside the concerts, Winnipeg Folk Fest 2026 will feature special programming throughout the weekend. One highlight is Time Fades Away Neil Young at 80, a celebration inspired by the 2025 tribute concert at Massey Hall. The performance will be led by musician Aaron Goldstein with guest performers joining throughout the event.
Another workshop titled Cumbia Cósmica will explore the fusion of traditional Colombian cumbia rhythms with psychedelic rock and electronic music. The session will feature performances by Chicha Libre, Empanadas Ilegales, and Killabeatmaker.
A Multi Generational Festival Experience
The festival continues to offer a wide range of programming designed for different audiences. The family area will feature interactive activities and performances, while daytime workshops highlight musical traditions from around the world. Evening Main Stage performances remain the centerpiece of the event, and the Big Blue at Night stage will host dance focused global music sets.
For many attendees the campground experience remains a central part of the weekend, with late night jam sessions and community gatherings continuing long after the daytime performances end.
Tickets and the full lineup for Winnipeg Folk Fest 2026 are available through the official festival website at winnipegfolkfestival.ca.
