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CityFolk Festival Day 1

The opening night of Ottawa’s CityFolk Festival set the stage for an unforgettable weekend of music, energy, and connection. With a diverse lineup of artists spanning genres from folk and blues to pop, hip-hop, and rock, the festival grounds quickly filled with excitement as fans poured in. Each performance brought its own unique spark, weaving together moments of joy, vulnerability, and celebration that perfectly embodied the spirit of CityFolk.

Hanorah

Opening night of Ottawa’s CityFolk Festival was launched by none other than Hanorah, Montreal-based artist celebrated for her playful sonic landscapes, commanding vocals, and heartfelt lyrics. From the moment she stepped on stage, her high energy set the tone for an uplifting evening ahead. Hanorah’s joyful connection with her band, paired with her radiant presence, made it clear she was exactly where she wanted to be.

As festivalgoers streamed through the gates, her charisma and talent immediately drew them in, holding their attention with ease and leaving the crowd fully immersed in her performance. 

Tafari Anthony  

Next to take the stage was Tafari Anthony, Juno-nominated pop singer-songwriter and performer from Toronto. Known for his incredible vocal range, genre-blurring artistry, and dynamic lyricism, Tafari brought a magnetic presence that immediately lit up the festival grounds. His set was a seamless mix of powerhouse vocals and infectious grooves, showcasing both artistry and pure joy in performance.

The crowd responded by dancing, swaying, and throwing their hands in the air, swept up in the energy he radiated. From start to finish, Tafari created an atmosphere that was as vibrant as it was unifying.

Mia Kelly

Following was Mia Kelly, bilingual singer-songwriter hailing from Gatineau, Quebec. From the moment she began her showcase, crowds gathered in record numbers, eager to witness her artistry. Her voice carried an ethereal quality, weaving together a distinctive blend of folk, rock, and blues that felt both timeless and fresh. Each song was steeped in raw, vulnerable emotion, drawing listeners into her world with an intimacy that resonated deeply across the audience.

As her set came to a close, thunderous applause filled the grounds, a clear testament to the impact she left behind. Her performance not only captivated but also carried forward the festival’s vibrant, uplifting energy

Paul Russell

Next to the stage was beloved American singer and rapper Paul Russell, who brought unfiltered joy and radiant energy to the festival. Even before he appeared, his DJ had the crowd on their feet, jumping and singing along to well-loved classics that set the perfect tone for what was to come. When Paul finally stepped into the spotlight, the atmosphere erupted.

With colorful lighting, infectious beats, and his undeniable passion, he transformed the stage into a celebration. His charisma and playful presence made it impossible not to dance, and for many festivalgoers, his set stood out as one of the true highlights of the night.

Tyler Shaw

Multiple JUNO Award nominee and multi-platinum-selling artist Tyler Shaw was next to take the stage, and the anticipation was undeniable. As attendees pressed forward, shoulder to shoulder in eager excitement, the atmosphere buzzed with expectation. The moment Tyler stepped into the spotlight, the crowd erupted in cheers, welcoming him with overwhelming enthusiasm. His performance was nothing short of unforgettable, fluidly moving across the stage, engaging not only with his bandmates but with the audience as well.

Each song built in momentum, the music swelling and filling the night air with a vibrant energy that seemed to electrify the entire festival grounds. Tyler’s set was both polished and heartfelt, a perfect blend of artistry and connection that carried the night forward with brilliance.

Alex Warren

Closing out the night on an absolute high was acclaimed pop singer-songwriter Alex Warren. The anticipation was electric with fans chanting his name long before the set began, their excitement building with every passing moment. When Alex finally burst onto the stage, the crowd erupted in cheers, marking the start of a performance that would prove unforgettable. His soaring, passionate vocals intertwined with raw and vulnerable lyrics, creating a set that was as powerful as it was personal. Midway through, Alex shared with the audience that he had just learned his dog was in the hospital, a revelation that added a layer of poignancy to an already emotional evening.

Coupled with the toll of life on the road, his honesty resonated deeply, forging a genuine connection with festivalgoers. Despite the challenges, Alex poured his heart into every note, delivering a performance that was both cathartic and inspiring. It was a beautiful and heartfelt finale. Truly an unforgettable close to the first day of CityFolk Festival.

In Closing

As the final notes faded into the night sky, it was clear that the first day of CityFolk Festival had delivered something truly special. From intimate, vulnerable performances to high-energy sets that had the crowd dancing shoulder to shoulder, the evening celebrated both artistry and community in equal measure.

With such a powerful start, the festival promises even more unforgettable moments in the days ahead, proving once again why CityFolk remains one of Ottawa’s most anticipated musical events of the year.

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