As Ottawa shakes off the final traces of winter, music lovers have something exciting to mark on their calendars. The CityFolk Festival is returning to Lansdowne Park this September with a lineup that’s already generating significant buzz across the capital region.
Festival organizers unveiled the highly anticipated 2025 roster yesterday, featuring an impressive mix of established headliners and emerging artists that reflect Ottawa’s diverse musical tastes. This year’s festival will run from September 12-15, transforming Lansdowne into a vibrant cultural hub.
“We’ve worked hard to create a balanced lineup that offers something for everyone,” says Mark Monahan, the festival’s executive director. “From folk purists to indie rock fans, this year’s festival aims to bring our community together through music.”
Headlining the main stage this year will be Grammy-winning artist Brandi Carlile, whose powerful vocals and emotionally charged performances have earned her a dedicated following. Canadian indie rock favorites Arcade Fire will close the festival with what promises to be a memorable Sunday night performance.
The lineup also features critically acclaimed singer-songwriter Jason Isbell, reggae legend Jimmy Cliff, and Ottawa’s own folk-rock group The Acorn, who are returning to the festival after a five-year hiatus.
Local music enthusiast Maria Chen, who has attended CityFolk every year since its relocation to Lansdowne in 2015, expressed her enthusiasm about this year’s offerings. “The organizers have really outdone themselves this time. I’m especially excited to see more local artists getting prime slots.”
Indeed, the festival continues its tradition of showcasing local talent, with Ottawa-based acts scheduled for each day of the event. Rising stars like Kalle Mattson and Twin Flames will perform alongside established national and international artists.
Beyond the music, CityFolk 2025 will feature an expanded food vendor area highlighting Ottawa’s diverse culinary scene. Local breweries will offer craft beer options, and a dedicated family zone will provide activities for younger attendees during daytime programming.
The festival’s return to Lansdowne Park continues a successful relationship with the venue that began after CityFolk moved from its previous location at Hog’s Back Park. The urban setting has proven popular with attendees who appreciate the accessibility and amenities of the redeveloped Lansdowne area.
City councillor Shawn Menard, whose ward includes the Lansdowne area, notes the economic impact of the festival. “Events like CityFolk bring thousands of visitors to the Glebe and surrounding neighborhoods. Local businesses see a significant boost during festival weekends.”
Last year’s festival attracted approximately 50,000 attendees over four days, according to data from Ottawa Tourism. This year, organizers are expecting similar numbers, with the potential for greater attendance given the strength of the lineup.
Early bird tickets go on sale next Monday through the festival’s official website, with a special discount for Ottawa residents during the first 48 hours of sales. Festival passes for all four days start at $129, while single-day tickets will be available starting at $45.
For those concerned about transportation, OC Transpo will once again offer enhanced service during the festival weekend, with dedicated shuttle buses running from downtown transit hubs to Lansdowne Park. Bicycle parking will also be expanded this year to accommodate the growing number of cyclists attending the event.
Weather has occasionally been a challenge for the September festival, but contingency plans are in place for any inclement conditions. “We’ve invested in improved tenting and covered areas this year,” Monahan explains. “The music will go on rain or shine.”
As I’ve covered CityFolk for the past decade, I’ve watched it evolve from its folk-focused roots to embrace a wider range of musical styles while maintaining its community-oriented atmosphere. What remains constant is the festival’s ability to
