2026 Festival Lineup

Kellie Loder is a highly decorated singer, songwriter, and storyteller, recently adding the 2026 ECMA for Songwriter of the Year to their collection. Described as “a multi-genre marvel,” their sound blends Americana, folk, and indie pop, reflecting the spirit and depth of their roots. 

Platinum-selling singer-songwriter Sarah Harmer has released 6 critically acclaimed albums, including her most recent, deeply personal and political release, Are You Gone. Along with her many musical awards, she also earned the 2025 Juno Humanitarian Award for her activism.

Sechile Sedare brings together the contemporary roots artistry of JUNO Award-winner Leela Gilday and her brother, Jay Gilday. The duo's music transcends genres and, through heartfelt lyrics and captivating storytelling, resonates deeply with the spirit of the land they come from.

Lisa MacIsaac and Catherine MacLellan, two cherished performers at Folk Harbour, are joined by Sarah MacDougall for a special trio performance at this year's festival. Together, the “Three Macs” combine their individual talents into a trio that is sure to enthrall and entertain. 

Suzie Vinnick, a talented artist and Saskatoon native, has received numerous accolades, including an ECMA and a CFMA. She is well known for her captivating voice and exceptional skills on guitar and bass. Suzie's performances consistently engage and resonate with her audiences.

Lloyd Spiegel, a 14-time Australian Blues Award winner, has developed a distinctive style of modern blues. With his exceptional guitar skills, powerful lyrics, and incredibly funny storytelling, Lloyd delivers performances that are both captivating and memorable.

Cécile Doo-Kingué blends blues, soul, jazz, chanson française, and African rhythms, creating a unique style that transcends languages, continents, and emotions. With multiple Maple Blues Awards nominations, she is recognized as one of Canada's most versatile guitarists.

Colin Linden is a legendary blues artist and producer with 9 JUNO Awards and a Grammy for producing Keb Mo's album Oklahoma. With 50 years of touring experience, he has worked with many different musicians, including the likes of Bruce Cockburn and Bob Dylan.

This award-winning band is celebrated for "keeping Celtic folk music alive in its purest form." With a diverse range of instruments, including the fiddle, piano, stepdance, accordion, bagpipes, whistle, and guitar, Beòlach consistently captivates audiences with their lively music.

The talented trio of Katherine Wheatley, Tannis Slimmon, and Angie Nussey make up the band Boreal, each bringing their own unique style to the group. Their 2025 album, Winterbirds, received three nominations at the Canadian Folk Music Awards, highlighting their musical excellence.

Danny Michel's music defies easy categorization, blending elements of rock, pop, folk, world, and classical genres into something truly magical. He has received many accolades, including a CFMA and the Oliver Schroder Pushing the Boundaries Award, reflecting his dedication to his craft.

For over 15 years, Grace Petrie has been a prominent force in UK songwriting, known for her politically charged folk music. The LGBTQ anthem “Black Tie” has gained 1.5 million streams, resonating with young queer individuals around the world.

The PEI-based quartet consists of Gordie 'Crazylegs' MacKeeman and his rhythm boys: Peter Cann, Thomas Webb, and Jason Burbine. Bouncing from down-home country to reckless rockabilly and intricate bluegrass, the group's performances are often described as exhilarating.

Jenny Whiteley started her musical journey early, inspired by her father and uncle, Chris and Ken Whiteley. She taught herself guitar in her early 20s and released her debut album, Jenny Whiteley, in 2000. Her talent and efforts paid off, rewarding her with two JUNO awards in the roots scene.

Joe H Henry captivates audiences with his incredibly powerful voice and a unique blend of early rhythm and blues, soul, and alt-country, all enhanced by folk-inspired lyrical depth. His deep and evocative storytelling further enriches his music, resonating with fans across Canada.

Le Diable à Cinq is a band consisting of three brothers, a cousin, and a friend, and their electrifying, high-energy performances are not to be missed. The group blends traditional Quebec roots music with pure rock energy, performing on three continents and earning a JUNO nomination.

Hailing from Cape Breton, the Morgan Toney trio consists of fiddling sensation Morgan Toney, multi-instrumentalist Keith Mullins, and mandolin talent Ryan Roberts. With his blend of Celtic sounds and old songs of the Mi’kmaq, Morgan has already nabbed two ECMAs and a JUNO this year.

Nadine Altounji is an incredibly versatile artist singing in Arabic, French, English, and Spanish, all while playing the oud or guitar to the highest calibre. Her musical sound lands where the musical forms of maqam meet landó and where French chanson takes on Arabic hues.

Noah Malcolm is a versatile artist known for his work in pop, folk, and short-film scores. He has earned four Music PEI Awards and the ECMA for Pop Release of the Year, showcasing his talent in the genre. In 2026, he is launching the folk-and-roots album, God Man.

Ndidi O is a two-time JUNO Award nominee and the 2019 Western Canadian Music Awards winner for Blues Artist of the Year. Her sound blends elements of blues, folk, rock, Americana, and country, creating a unique musical experience that explores contrasting cultures and heritages.

The Minister of Music at Emmanuel Baptist Church, O'Sound, is a highly respected vocalist and musician in the NS scene. He was awarded the late Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal for exceptional service in the Arts, Community Service, and Volunteerism in Nova Scotia.

Art Ross and Aaron Green wield softness and vulnerability to deliver music that stings with emotion, reflecting their band's namesake. In 2025, they won the Music Nova Scotia Pop Recording of the Year award, showcasing their talent for songs aimed straight at the heart.

From Vancouver, BC, Steve Dawson is one of the hardest-working musicians to come from Canada. With 7 JUNOs, 7 Producer of the Year titles from the Canadian Folk and Western Canadian Music Awards, several Maple Blues Awards, and more, it is clear to see how he has earned his reputation.

Playing together since 2025, Peter Youngtree & Carole Bestevar have played for crowds of five and five thousand. Their sound is an eclectic mix of traditional and modern folk music, well-crafted original songs, and instrumentals that result in consistently exuberant performances.