Festivals You Can't Miss
in Northern Canada

Adäka Cultural Festival

When: June 27-30, 2025

Where: Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre, 1171 1st Ave, Whitehorse, YT

What: This event is a wonderful celebration of the Northern Dene Nations and Yukon First Nations, offering a rich experience through art, fashion, music, stories, language, history, and food. It's a fantastic opportunity to witness and honor the diverse and distinctive First Nations arts and culture. You can find more details about the festival at adakafestival.ca.

Alyeska Resort Blueberry Festival

When: August 09-19, 2025

Where: Alyeska Resort, 1000 Arlberg Ave, Girdwood, AK

What: August brings the much-anticipated return of Alaska's beloved treat: the blueberry. These tasty little gems are abundant on the majestic Alaskan mountains, much to the delight of locals. Visitors can enjoy 'no-hands-allowed' blueberry pie-eating contests for both kids and adults, watch chefs demonstrate blueberry desserts and main dishes, and participate in food tasting contests. With over forty arts and crafts booths, numerous food vendors, a beer garden, and live music, this festival is one of the most eagerly awaited events in the north. Plan your Alaskan camping trip and get all the details at alyeskaresort.com/events/blueberry!

Augusto! Children's Festival

When: August 08-10, 2025

Where: St. Elias Convention Centre, 178 Backe St., Haines Junction, YT

What: Discover the joy and excitement of a children's art, music, and theatrical festival in the stunning Yukon! Dance to popular hits at the family dance, get creative in craft sessions, watch talented dance performances, savor delicious foods, play musical games with new friends, and enjoy a puppet show! This festival offers countless opportunities to create lasting memories and bond with your young family, especially for children under 12. Find more fun details at augustokids.ca.

Dawson City Music Festival

When: July 18-20, 2025

Where: Minto Park, 471 7th Ave, Dawson City, YT (Multiple music venues; check festival website for full details)

What: Since 1979, the Dawson City Music Festival (DCMF) has been a cherished music and cultural event in the Yukon. It has evolved into a world-class showcase of artists from various genres and a fantastic party! Known among performers and music enthusiasts across Canada, it has earned the title of "Canada's perfect tiny music festival." Enjoy incredible music, a walking "concert crawl" at different Dawson City venues, delicious food, markets, a lively beer garden, friendly people, and an authentic grassroots spirit in the heart of Yukon’s Klondike. For more details, visit dcmf.com.

Folk on the Rocks

When: July 18-20, 2025

Where: Long Lake, Northwest Territories - 5 KM outside Yellowknife

What: Folk on the Rocks, the North's premier music festival, offers more than just folk music! Held on a sandy lakeshore near Yellowknife, this weekend-long event features southern headliners, including Juno award-winning rockers, and impressive northern talent. Don't miss the giant Dene drum circle on Sunday evening, a festival tradition with unmatched energy. Enjoy Yellowknife's culinary delights, from spicy butter chicken to bison burgers, and cool off with iced coffee and ice cream under the midnight sun. For more details, visit folkontherocks.com.

Great Northern Arts Festival

When: July 09-14, 2025

Where: Midnight Sun Recreation Centre, 95 Gwich'In Road, Inuvik, NWT

What: Experience North America's longest-running Arctic art and music festival, held every summer since 1989 on the lands of the Gwich’in and Inuvialuit people in Inuvik, Northwest Territories. This unique six-day event celebrates talent, tradition, and creativity with daily live demonstrations of soapstone carving, drum-making, embroidery, beading, weaving, jewelry making, traditional boat building, fish scale art, birch bark basketry, and fine art under the midnight sun. Enjoy world-class performances on the main stage, featuring traditional songs from Inuvialuit and Dene drummers and dancers, as well as legendary singers. For more details, visit greatnorthernartsfestival.org.

Kluane Mountain Bluegrass Festival

When: June 06-08, 2025

Where: St. Elias Convention Center, 178 Backe St., Haines Junction, Yukon

What: The Kluane Mountain Bluegrass Festival, now in its second decade, proudly stands as the only Bluegrass Festival North of 60. Held in Haines Junction, Yukon, it attracts international audiences and world-class performers. Enjoy top bluegrass bands in one of the world's most stunning locations. This dry festival offers an intimate setting where artists and attendees can mix, mingle, and jam together. People of all ages and musical backgrounds create unforgettable moments under shady trees, on the grass, or by a bonfire. Onsite concessions and local cafes and restaurants in Haines Junction are ready to welcome you. For more details, visit yukonbluegrass.com.

The Kluane Chilkat International Bike Relay

When: June 21, 2025

Where: St. Elias Convention Centre, 178 Backe St., Haines Junction, YT

What: Experience the breathtaking 150-mile drive from Haines Junction, Yukon to Haines, Alaska, surrounded by stunning vistas and wildlife. Why not enjoy the ride on a bike, perhaps in a race? The Kluane Chilkat Relay, held every June around the summer solstice, brings excitement to locals and visitors alike. You can participate as a solo rider or in teams of 2, 4, or 8. For more details, visit kcibr.org.

As we wrap up our journey through the vibrant festivals of Northern Canada, it's clear that this region offers a rich tapestry of cultural, musical, and culinary experiences. From the artistic expressions at the Adäka Cultural Festival and the Great Northern Arts Festival to the musical delights of the Dawson City Music Festival and Folk on the Rocks, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you're savoring the flavors at the Alyeska Resort Blueberry Festival, creating family memories at Augusto! Children's Festival, or feeling the thrill of the Kluane Chilkat International Bike Relay, each event promises unique and unforgettable moments. These festivals not only celebrate the diverse heritage and talents of the North but also bring communities together in joyous celebration.

So, as you plan your next adventure, consider the magic and excitement of Northern Canada's festivals. Embrace the opportunity to connect with the local culture, meet new friends, and create lasting memories. Happy festival-going!

Find more festivals in Canada and explore places far and wide!