Don’t miss the 13th annual Ottawa Grassroots Festival. It’s happening April 24-27 at the First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa, located at 30 Cleary Avenue off Richmond Road. This beloved community festival is more than just great music; it’s a celebration of creativity and connection.
Opening night is Thursday, April 24, with The Barrow Gang Buskers, one of Ottawa’s favourite bands. Punctuated with stage antics, these “buskers” play a mix of foot-stomping rockabilly-infused tunes, led by George Stryker. The Dusty Drifters will be opening, with their own unique mix of traditional bluegrass.
Friday April 25th, local icon, and JUNO Award winner Lynn Miles will take you on a journey with her drop-dead-beautiful honey-smooth voice and soulful lyrics. She is also incredibly funny. Internationally acclaimed folk-pop songwriter and vocalist Evangeline Gentle will be opening the show.
Saturday April 26, see The Devin Cuddy Band, famous for a high-energy blend of country/roots with a splash of New Orleans blues. Devin grew up surrounded by amazing musicians (yes, he is the son of Jim Cuddy from Blue Rodeo), so it’s no wonder that, along with his band, he has become a fixture on the Canadian music scene with his powerful stories and authentic sound. It’s the kind of music that’ll get you up dancing! Josh Ritchie will get the evening started. A born performer, Josh has had a guitar in his hands and songs in his bones since he could stand.
All Saturday and Sunday daytime performances and workshops are FREE and include:
* Arthur McGregor * Erin Okrainec & Ann Downey * Gladsome Gentlemen * Knock on Wood * Kristine St-Pierre * Mikhail Laxton * OGF Gospel Hour * Pam & Jeff Gleeson *Ray Harris * Tin Constellations * The Womensong Collective * Tony Turner * Toucan All-Abilities Singing Group * Singer Songwriter Circle * Mary Gick * and more!
Workshops:
- Songwriting Workshop with Lynn Miles
- The Gardening Guru with Ed Lawrence
- Guitar Workshop with Vince Halfhide
- The Adventures of Kiki, Koko & Kevin / Les aventures de Kiki, Koko et Kevin
There’s ample free, accessible parking on site.
Founded in 2012 by Bob Nesbitt and powered by volunteers, the Ottawa Grassroots Festival is a multi-day, family-friendly celebration of homegrown music, art, culture and community. The festival offers affordable programming, featuring a vibrant mix of concerts, participatory workshops, and artistic presentations at various venues.
OGF is entirely volunteer-run and relies on the generous support of our funders, including: the Government of Canada, City of Ottawa, Hobin Architecture, Baker Tilly, Ontario Trillium Foundation and KoW Connected.
For tickets and the full schedule, see ottawagrassrootsfestival.com.
