Founded in 2009, The Shigawake Music Festival showcases artists based in the province of Quebec. The uniqueness of this particular event is its ability to create a welcoming, relaxed, and inspiring setting for both musicians and audiences. The festival’s notable reputation for curating a diverse and intriguing line-up helps to attract local, provincial, and national attention.
Expected to be a one-time event, the first edition focused on music appreciation, which resonated strongly with the community. Organizers decided to keep it going – continuing to cater to the desire for an increase of accessibility to live music in the non-francophone communities throughout the region. This remains the backbone of the event to this day.
Shigawake Music Festival typically takes place in the month of August – a wonderful time of year with beautiful weather at the peak of the tourist season. The festival is situated in the small town of Shigawake, Quebec (population 338) in the picturesque Gaspe region, about 900km northeast of Montreal. The festival site sits nestled on the cliffs overlooking the famous Baie de Chaleur.
The local agricultural fairgrounds, as well as an adjacent farmers field host the festival. On these grounds, a large tent is assembled housing the main stage, which is fully equipped with a professional sound system, lighting, seating, and a dance floor. A secondary stage can be found in the heritage building called the “Trough” and is reserved for intimate and late-night performances. The grounds are fully equipped with on-site facilities (toilets, food vendors, bars, RV camping and accesible parking).