Stan Rogers Folk Festival (Stanfest)

Stan Rogers Folk Festival

For three decades, the Stan Rogers Folk Festival — affectionately known as Stanfest — has transformed the tiny fishing community of Canso, Nova Scotia into one of Canada's most beloved summer music destinations. The 2026 edition marked the festival's 30th anniversary, drawing over 3,000 people daily to the Eastern Shore for a week-long celebration of folk music, storytelling, and community that has been described as "Woodstock by the sea." Named in honour of the legendary Canadian songwriter Stan Rogers, whose music captured the spirit of Maritime Canada, the festival has grown from a small tribute into an internationally recognized event that attracts top-tier artists while maintaining the intimate, welcoming atmosphere that has earned it a fiercely loyal following.

Practical Information

Address & Location
Stan Rogers Folk Festival, 104 Queen Street Extension, Canso, NS B0H 1H0
Located on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia, approximately 3.5 hours drive from Halifax (via Highway 7 or 104/316) and 1.5 hours from Antigonish.

2026 Festival Schedule (concluded)
The 2026 edition ran July 20–26: Stanfest Roadshow July 20–22 (10 shows in 7 communities), The Roar Back Concert (Stan Rogers Tribute) July 23, and the Main Festival Weekend July 24–26 (40+ artists, 3 stages). Camping opened early in the week for Roadshow attendees. Dates for the 2027 festival are announced each spring on stanfest.com.

Ticket Information
Weekend, daily, and evening passes available. Tickets for the Roadshow events, The Roar Back Concert, and Main Festival are sold individually or as packages. Children 12 and under enter free. Purchase through Showpass at stanfest.com/tickets.

Getting There
By car from Halifax: Take Highway 7 east (scenic route, 3.5 hours) or Highway 104 to Antigonish then Highway 316 (faster, 3 hours). Carpooling is highly recommended. Electric vehicle charging is available at the Canso Public Library. Free on-site parking is available for festival attendees.

Camping & Accommodation
On-site camping is the classic Stanfest experience and included with weekend passes. Free camping is available Monday-Wednesday during the Roadshow. "A for Adventureland" offers glamping with fully-equipped tents (twin beds, camping chairs, rug, lantern) — just bring your sleeping bag and pillow. Local B&Bs and accommodations in Antigonish are alternatives but book months in advance.

What to Bring
Warm layers, rain gear, comfortable walking shoes, flashlight/headlamp, reusable water bottle, camping gear (if tenting), cash for artisan vendors (limited ATM on site). Cell service is limited in Canso — embrace the digital detox.

Food & Amenities
Full-service food vendors on-site offering a variety of options, including local Nova Scotia fare. The town of Canso has fuel, groceries, a café, and a convenience store. The Handmade Village features local artisans and craftspeople.

Contact
Phone: 1-888-554-7826 | Email: info@stanfest.com
Website: stanfest.com | Facebook: @stanrogersfolkfestival | Instagram: @stanrogersfolkfestival

Stanfest is more than a festival — it's a pilgrimage for folk music lovers and a testament to the power of community, song, and the enduring legacy of one of Canada's greatest songwriters. Whether you're a first-timer or a veteran camper returning for your 20th year, Stanfest delivers an authentic, joyful, and deeply moving experience that captures the very best of Nova Scotia's musical soul. Plan ahead for next summer: see the events calendar for what's on during your trip.