A major Canadian music award show is taking over Calgary this April

Some of Canada’s top folk music artists are headed to Calgary this spring as the Canadian Folk Music Awards are set to return to the city for four days of performances and storytelling.

The 2026 awards will take place from April 9 to 12 and will feature bilingual concerts and focus on both national and international audiences.

Each evening blends live performances with award presentations, showcasing the diversity and creativity of the Canadian folk music scene.

What to expect at the award show

The event will kick off on Thursday, April 9, with Songs and Stories at the Westin Calgary Ballroom, bringing together French, English, and Indigenous songwriters for a night full of music and storytelling.

Friday and Saturday move to Bella Concert Hall, where artists like AHI, Asaynabee, Cassie and Maggie, and Calgary’s own Calgaréal will perform, with awards being presented throughout each evening.

The festival will wrap up on Sunday, April 12, with Folks for Families at the National Music Centre, offering an all-ages show packed with fun performances for all audiences.

About the awards

Founded in 2005, the Canadian Folk Music Awards were created to celebrate and help promote folk music across the country.

While other music awards typically include select folk categories, the CFMAs are dedicated entirely to the genre, recognizing the depth and cultural significance during a jury selection process.

Award categories like Traditional Album of the Year, Instrumental Group of the Year, and New Emerging Artist of the Year will be presented throughout the festival, recognizing artists across a wide range of styles and stages in their careers.

Planning your visit

Tickets for the award show are available for individual concerts or an all-access wristband for the full weekend, giving music fans the chance to experience every performance and award presentation.

Whether you’re a lifelong folk music fan or you’re looking for a unique outing, the Canadian Folk Music Awards offers a chance to catch some of Canada’s best artists live, discover new voices, and celebrate the storytelling behind the music.

Canadian Folk Music Awards

When: Thursday, April 9, Friday, April 10, Saturday, April 11, Sunday, April 12, 2026
Where: Location varies each day
Time: Thursday, April 9: 7:30 p.m., Friday, April 10: 7:30 p.m., Saturday, April 11: 7:30 p.m., Sunday, April 12: 11 a.m.
Cost: All Access Pass: $110+ Fees, Day Pass: $40+ Fees

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Kaiya Williams

Kaiya is a Calgary-based writer and content creator with a background in marketing and digital storytelling. She has a passion for community-driven stories and covering local experiences that connect people.

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