Kingston | Garrett Elliott
Live music
From outdoor stadiums to heritage concert halls, rustic country barns to legendary local taverns, Ontario sets the stage for world-class music festivals, big-ticket concerts, as well as intimate performances. Home to a tapestry of local and grass roots talent, the province has long fostered a vibrant live music scene that gave rise to household names from Blue Rodeo and The Tragically Hip to Drake, The Weeknd, Metric and Shawn Mendes.
Live music venues and festivals across the province host renowned and up-and-coming local, national and international bands, musicians and performers from all musical genres. So, get your groove on in Ontario.
Quick guide to live music in Ontario
Big city – big names
International big-ticket acts never miss one of the largest cities in North America on their worldwide tours. With large open-air stadiums like Rogers Centre (with its retractable roof) to closed arenas such as the Scotiabank Arena, Toronto welcomes the world’s top performers year-round.
Historical venues
Since 1894, the iconic Massey Hall has been a key live music landmark in Toronto. Diverse acts from Bob Dylan to Luciano Pavarotti have graced its stage, as well as repeat shows by Gordon Lightfoot, who has performed over 170 times.
Opened in 1947, the Horseshoe Tavern is another stage that beats at the heart of Toronto’s live music scene. London’s Aeolian Hall was built in 1882, yet still puts on a stellar show thanks to state-of-the-art acoustics.
Unique music venues
Located in Northumberland’s picturesque countryside, Westben Arts Festival Theatre is a custom-concert built, timber-frame barn equipped with excellent acoustics and lighting, that creates a magical and moving experience.
String lights twinkle over the stage at the rustic Hayloft Dancehall in Prince Edward County.
Celebrate musical acts in small, intimate spaces including churches and barns across Eastern Ontario during the Festival of Small Halls.
Get inspired
Planning your live music adventure in Ontario? Get started with these helpful articles.
Ready to explore more? Get started.
Know before you go
Drink responsibly
In Ontario, you must be at least 19 years old to order, handle and consume alcohol. Ontario has a zero tolerance policy on impaired driving.
Get your tickets early
Check with the venue on the best way to reserve your tickets before shows sell out. In many cases, you can book your seats via Ticketmaster.ca.
Festivals and events Ontario
Search Festivals and Events Ontario for the top annual music events taking place in Ontario.
Last updated: October 15, 2024