The Canmore Folk Music Festival is Alberta's longest-running folk music festival, celebrating 48 years of music, community, and creativity. Held annually over the August long weekend, the festival brings together a dynamic lineup of local, national, and international artists, drawing an audience of over 5,000 people each day to the stunning Rocky Mountain town of Canmore. With its picturesque setting and welcoming atmosphere, the Canmore Folk Festival has become a beloved destination for music lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Founded in 1978 by a group of passionate volunteers, the Canmore Folk Festival began as a small community gathering and has grown into one of Western Canada’s premier folk festivals. We’re proud to continue this tradition, celebrating music’s power to connect people of all backgrounds through storytelling and song. Our festival remains grounded in its community roots, with the support of dedicated volunteers, a committed board, and partnerships with local sponsors, businesses, and patrons from across Canada and beyond.

Our Mission

More than a just weekend.  The heart of the Canmore Folk Festival is a commitment to promoting artistic excellence, inclusivity, and community engagement year round. We strive to create a space where everyone feels welcome and inspired. Our mission is to foster a vibrant, sustainable arts community that showcases diverse musical talents and nurtures local artists through initiatives like our Artist Development Program. In addition to our annual festival, we host smaller events throughout the year, supporting year-round arts engagement and enriching Canmore’s cultural landscape.