of Canada’s most acclaimed performers: Hawksley Workman and Matt Andersen. Both artists will play key roles in this landmark anniversary year, bringing their distinctive styles and celebrated live performances to the Stanfest stage. Hawksley Workman has spent more than two decades building a reputation as one of Canada’s most creative and dynamic singer- songwriters. Known for his powerful vocals, theatrical performances, and genre-defying catalogue, Workman continues to captivate audiences with a blend of rock, folk, and storytelling that makes every performance unique. His appearance at the 30th anniversary festival is expected to be one of the weekend’s marquee attractions. Joining him is East Coast favourite Matt Andersen, whose soulful voice and masterful guitar playing have earned him international acclaim. Andersen’s ability to command a stage with nothing more than a guitar and his unmistakable vocals has made him one of Canada’s most respected blues and roots performers. Festival organizers have also highlighted Andersen’s participation in a special Stan Rogers tribute concert, making his presence particularly meaningful during this milestone celebration. Beyond the headliners, festival-goers can look forward to performances by Lennie Gallant, The Irish Descendants, J.P. Cormier, Cassie and Maggie, Dave Gunning, Nick Earle and the Reckless Hearts, Garrett Mason, Adrian Sutherland, and many more artists representing a wide range of musical traditions. A major highlight of the week will be a special tribute to Stan Rogers featuring members of the Rogers family alongside an all-star cast of Canadian performers. The concert will celebrate the enduring legacy of Rogers’ music and his lasting impact on Canadian songwriting. As Stanfest celebrates three decades of music, friendship, and community, the 2026 festival promises to be both a tribute to its rich history and a showcase of the remarkable talent that continues to define Canada’s folk and roots music scene. For longtime attendees and first-time visitors alike, the 30th anniversary edition is shaping up to be one of the most memorable chapters in the festival’s storied history.
One of Atlantic Canada’s most beloved music festivals is preparing for a milestone celebration in 2026 as the Stan Rogers Folk Festival, affectionately known as Stanfest, marks its 30th anniversary in Canso, Nova Scotia. Taking place from July 20 to 26, 2026, the week-long festival has grown from a small weekend gathering into a nationally recognized musical event that attracts thousands of visitors and showcases more than 50 artists from across Canada and around the world. Named in honour of legendary Canadian songwriter Stan Rogers, the festival has become synonymous with exceptional songwriting, intimate performances, and the welcoming spirit of Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore. What began in 1997 as a tribute to one of Canada’s most influential folk musicians has evolved into a seven-day celebration of folk, blues, roots, country, Celtic, rock, and world music while maintaining the community atmosphere that has made Stanfest a favourite among performers and audiences alike. The 2026 festival features one of its strongest lineups in recent memory, led by two
July 20th - 26th Canso, NS Headliners: Hawksley Workman Matt Andersen
Photo courtesy of Churchill Parket Music Festival
For more on this event or tickets for this event, go to https://www.stanfest.com/
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