Canada’s largest music and arts festival is back for its 18th year! The Montreal-based multi-genre music festival Osheaga starts on Friday (August 1st) and runs the entire weekend.
The festival brings international stars like Olivia Rodrigo, The Killers, The Chainsmokers, and Doechii, in addition to homegrown Canadian artists like Debby Friday and Ruby Waters.
With over 80 artists, five stages, and after parties in clubs around the city, there’s a little something for everyone at the festival.
We’ll be heading up to our neighbors to the north to cover each day of the music and arts festival. Ahead of Osheaga, we had the pleasure of speaking with Patrick Guay, Senior Manager Booking, Concerts, and Events for Osheaga, to learn about the artists we should not miss at the festival.
New York Artists
Hometown artists will be representing the Empire State across four of the five Osheaga stages on both Saturday and Sunday!
TV On The Radio – Saturday, 8/2 at 6:55pm on the Belairdirect Valley Stage
The rock band from Brooklyn, initially formed in 2001, has created a melodic/ electronic niche in the rock world all their own. After taking a hiatus from 2019 to 2024, the band is touring again, and we’re excited to see them live! This is also one of Patrick’s must-see shows. He told us that he last saw TV on the Radio in 2006 and “couldn’t believe…” that he got to see them again this year at the festival (they’re only playing a few festivals this year).
The Chainsmokers – Saturday, 8/2 at 8:55pm on the Belairdirect Valley Stage
The DJ duo broke out in 2014 with their hit #selfie. Following up with four studio albums and three EPs, the Chainsmokers have quickly become one of the top EDM acts globally. Known for a high-energy show, this one is a must-see for any electronic music fan.
Tinzo + Jojo – Saturday 8/2 at 5:35pm on the Coca-Cola Island Stage
While less known, the DJ duo and siblings Tinzo and Jojo will also light up the Osheaga Stage. They bring their lived experience as Filipina artists and filmmakers to their music, which is a combination of indie and soulful dance songs.
Mark Ambor – Sunday 8/3 at 3:25pm on the Bell River Stage
Singer-songwriter Mark Ambor – best known for his 2024 hit “belong together” will bring his indie pop style to the Bell River stage on Sunday. As the earliest stage time for a New York artist, his set will be an excellent warmup for the rest of the Sunday sets after a packed Saturday schedule.
Amaarae – Sunday 8/3 at 7:10pm on the Scotia Forest Stage
Finally, Amaarae is an artist we’re incredibly excited for. The Ghanaian-American artist combines R&B, pop, and Afro-beats to create a unique sound that is eminently danceable. Amaarae has a sound that’s distinct from anything else we’re expecting to see at Osheaga and she’s a must-see for anyone who loves Afro-beats and genre-bending artists.
Who Patrick is Most Excited to See:
When we talked to Patrick, he said he doesn’t have favorites, but that he’s most excited to see:
Gracie Abrams, Saturday 8/2 at 7:45pm on the Coors Light Mountain Stage
Doechii, Friday 8/1 at 9:55pm on the Scotia Forest Stage
The Struts, Friday 8/1 at 3:25pm on the Bell River Stage
Future Islands, Saturday 8/2 at 6:10pm on the Scotia Forest Stage
Gigi Perez, Sunday 8/3 at 4:10pm on Coors Light Mountain Stage
BigXthaPlug Sunday 8.3 at 5:35pm on Scotia Forest Stage
What First-Time Festival Goers Should Know
Patrick also had a few tips for first-time festival goers. He said, “Just like I tell my daughter, wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, plan your entry and exit.” He also added that there tends to be a rush of concertgoers at the main gate around 5pm, so getting into the festival around then can take more time. Finally, Patrick mentioned that the festival has the YUL EAT Gardens, which features food from some of the best restaurants in the city.
In addition to what Patrick mentioned, we recommend planning food breaks, wearing comfortable walking shoes (there are ten-minute walks between some stages), and taking the time to enjoy the site itself, which is situated in the middle of a wooded park.
We’re excited to see you there!
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