TLDR: Osheaga, one of Canada’s most popular annual music events, has released a statement celebrating the success of their latest festival. On August 5, Osheaga newsletter subscribers received the statement along with the various photos.
Friday – Day 1
The 18th edition of OSHEAGA, Music and Arts Festival presented by Bell in collaboration with Coors Light took over Parc Jean-Drapeau this weekend, delivering three days of world-class performances and memorable crowd moments. Once again, OSHEAGA reaffirmed its status as Canada’s best music festival, uniting over 142,000 fans (60% travelling in from outside Québec).
The festival kicked off on Friday, as the stages lit up with a mix of indie charm, pop hits, hip-hop and a little country. With performances kicking off at 2 p.m., fans were treated to back-to-back performances for more than 9 hours each day! The festival was in full force right out of the gate with explosive sets across the site, including Bibi Club’s SiriusXM Backyard Sessions, where they created a beautiful and intimate atmosphere to play their pop music.
Joey Valence & Brae took to the belairdirect VALLEY stage for a performance inspired by nightclubs and The Beastie Boys, reimagined for modern music lovers.
Damiano David of Måneskin delivered a magnetic performance that had fans buzzing, while Vancouver’s Ekkstacy unleashed a high-energy set, and FINNEAS made a triumphant solo return for his third OSHEAGA appearance (the last two times were with his sister Billie Eilish). “We always have a good time at this festival, and tonight won’t be any different,” he declared. And he was right.
Dominic Fike radiated joy as he took the stage, bringing a special moment by covering Coldplay’s “Yellow”, met with roaring approval. Over at the Scotia Bank FOREST stage, Jorja Smith enchanted the audience with her soulful vocals, proving once again why she’s a fan favourite! Local talent Pypy shined bright at the SiriusXM Backyard Sessions, proudly representing Montréal’s rich music scene! The lead singer’s charisma and vocals created a punk rock ambiance like no other.
Glass Animals brought their signature quirky energy to the Coors Light MOUNTAIN stage. They were floored by the crowd’s synchronized singing, which carried all the way to the final chorus. Barry Can’t Swim thrilled electronic music fans with a full-band set! The Killers truly killed, with lead singer Brandon Flowers dominating the stage and holding the crowd in the palm of his hand, bringing the rock ‘n’ roll heat while looking cool and completely in control of the fans. The band started out with a kiss and a bang, opening with their huge hit, the anthemic “Mr. Brightside” (over 2.6 billion streams) and later bringing Lucy Dacus on stage for an emotional rendition of “Read My Mind.” Dacus was visibly moved, creating a heartwarming highlight of the night.
Meanwhile, Doechii lit up the Scotiabank FOREST stage with her first-ever performance in Canada, leaving a powerful first impression.
Saturday – Day 2
Saturday continued with incredible momentum, drawing a sold-out crowd that brought unmatched energy to the festival grounds. Opening the Coors Light MOUNTAIN stage was Good Neighbours, who impressed with their commanding stage presence, setting the tone for a day of standout performances. Taking up the mid-afternoon spot on the Bell RIVER stage was Alex Warren, drawing thousands to the OSHEAGA site early to sing, laugh, and cry along to his deeply personal (but randomly funny) set. Naomi Sharon’s soft voice was a blissful breath of fresh air, and later, Adam Ten’s infectious beats got the crowd moving at the Cola-Cola ISLAND stage.
Fans lined up early to catch Gracie Abrams’ return to OSHEAGA, and this time, she was greeted by a significantly larger and even more enthusiastic crowd than the one she had three years ago on the same stage. Her gratitude was palpable! Sammy Virji praised Montréal as “one of the best crowds,” and the feeling was mutual as he closed the Coca-Cola ISLAND stage.
Capping off the night, Tyler, The Creator brought his unique blend of theatrical flair and raw energy to the Bell RIVER stage, treating fans who had just seen him at the Bell Centre days earlier with first time ever performances tracks from his new album. His OSHEAGA set was explosive, unhinged, and unforgettable.
Sunday – Day 3
Sunday proved that the festival saved some of its best acts for last. Rising star Jade LeMac debuted her unreleased track “Running Home” and gushed that Montréal is her “favourite city ever”! Rose Perron, the lead vocalist from local act Rau_ze, showed incredible stage presence throughout their afternoon slot on the belairdirect VALLEY stage. Mark Ambor lit up the Bell RIVER stage with magnetic presence and infectious energy, fully commanding the crowd, while Gigi Perez stunned with her powerful, soulful vocals just over at the Coors Light MOUNTAIN stage.
BigXthaPlug quickly became one of the weekend’s highlights, delivering a set full of good vibes and southern hip-hop. Fans were treated to a unique moment when Royel Otis invited Jordan Miller of Canadian rock darlings The Beaches on stage for a surprise collaboration! Cage the Elephant delivered a fiery performance, with frontman Matt Shultz standing out as a true force of nature on stage.
