Cityfolk 2025 Day 3 | Hidden Beats

Hidden Beats

Your Ultimate Source for Music, Entertainment and Community

A Perfect Day to Celebrate Music

Cityfolk 2025 Day 3 marked the halfway point of the festival, and the energy was still electric. The sun was out, the skies were clear, and the weather could not have been better for a day filled with nonstop performances. Festival goers were smiling, grabbing cold drinks, and setting up for another round of unforgettable shows.

The lineup for Day 3 had something for everyone, from emerging Canadian talent to world renowned legends. What stood out most was how each stage seemed to tell its own story. Whether you were at the intimate small stage or standing shoulder to shoulder in front of the main stage, the performances were heartfelt and memorable.

School House Sets the Tone

Opening the Fasken Stage was School House, a group proudly representing Ottawa. They came in strong and quickly captured the crowd with their polished sound. The band’s name took on an amusing double meaning when someone pointed out that they actually live in a real school house.

Fresh off winning the Boots and Hearts Emerging Artist Contest, School House brought the momentum from that victory into Cityfolk. They proved why they’re a band to keep an eye on, blending skill with charm while giving the festival a hometown highlight to start the day.

Mint Simon Brings the Vibes

Mint Simon was the first act on the Main Stage, and their solo work felt fresh and exciting. Ottawa welcomed them warmly as they mixed new material with fan favorites, creating a set that flowed effortlessly.

With songs already featured in popular shows, Mint Simon has clearly earned accolades, but it was their stage presence that really left a mark. Die hard fans danced non stop, singing along while Mint Simon moved with confidence across the stage. It was the kind of set that made even newcomers to their music feel instantly connected.

Kaia Kater’s Storytelling Magic

On the small stage, Kaia Kater delivered a performance full of depth and intimacy. She called both Montreal and Ottawa her hometowns, which immediately made the crowd feel like they were part of something special. Opening with “St. Elizabeth,” her voice carried through the air with clarity and warmth.

Between songs, Kaia shared stories about how her music came to life, making the performance personal and engaging. Her vocals were powerful, her sound polished, and her connection with the audience undeniable. Fans left feeling like they had experienced both a concert and a conversation.

James Warms Up the Main Stage

James took over the Main Stage with a full band that used every inch of the space. Lead vocalist Tim Booth was magnetic, radiating energy that spread quickly through the massive crowd. His ability to channel emotion while keeping the audience engaged made him the perfect front man.

In one of the most memorable moments of the day, Tim came down from the stage to wander through the crowd, dancing and singing right alongside the fans. From start to finish, their set showcased their connection as a band and their passion for performance. Closing with crowd favorite “Laid” had the entire audience singing at the top of their lungs.

The Devil Makes Three Close the Small Stage

The Devil Makes Three provided one of the most intimate yet lively sets of the evening. Though their crowd started small due to overlap with James, word spread quickly, and soon the tent filled with eager fans. Their blend of energy and atmosphere created a show that felt both unique and communal.

The lighting and staging only enhanced the mood, making their performance a highlight for anyone who craved something a little different from the larger scale acts. For many, this was their first time seeing the group live, and the response was overwhelmingly positive.

The Devil Makes Three - Cityfolk 2025 (6)

The Devil Makes Three - Cityfolk 2025 (5)

The Devil Makes Three - Cityfolk 2025 (4)

The Devil Makes Three - Cityfolk 2025 (3)

The Devil Makes Three - Cityfolk 2025 (2)

The Devil Makes Three - Cityfolk 2025 (1)

Morrisey Steals the Night

All eyes were on Morrisey as the headliner of Cityfolk 2025 Day 3, and the anticipation leading up to his performance was undeniable. Fans had speculated for months about whether he would play, and when he stepped out with a bouquet of lilies in hand, the crowd roared.

Mixing both solo tracks and classics from The Smiths, Morrisey delivered a set that felt timeless. His voice carried across the park with strength, and the sheer size of the crowd showed just how deep his legacy runs. In true Morrisey fashion, the entire festival went meatless for the evening, with PETA even on site to reinforce his message.

Another one for the books

Cityfolk 2025 Day 3 captured everything that makes this festival special. The blend of local talent, international stars, and legendary performers created a perfect flow from start to finish. The weather was beautiful, the crowds were buzzing, and the music felt unforgettable.

James gave one of the most engaging sets of the festival, and seeing Morrisey live was a bucket list moment for countless fans. With The Pogues and Dropkick Murphys on deck for Day 4, Cityfolk is showing no signs of slowing down, proving once again why it remains one of the best festivals of the year.

https://cityfolkfestival.com

Send us a message here