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Updated on Apr 16, 2026
Summer in the Eastern Townships means much more than discovering amazing landscapes! Our region is also defined by its cultural effervescence experienced outdoors, following the beat of festivals that vibrate throughout the territory. Whether you’re into classical music, new emerging sounds, performing arts, outdoor shows or festive settings to enjoy with the entire family, you’re sure to find an event to suit your preferences.
From concerts under the stars to grandiose fireworks by way of dazzling artistic presentations or moments of pure contemplation in the heart of nature, here are 5 major festivals that you absolutely must add to your season’s outing calendar. Get ready to rock your summer!
July and August 2026
The La Grande Échappée festival, imagined by Traces et Souvenances with Rue Principales Coaticook, offers an out-of-the-ordinary adventure in the heart of Coaticook. Here, traditional venues are left behind: designed as an immersive, roaming experience, the event invites audiences to walk, observe, and let themselves be surprised. Blending fiction and reality, it draws you into a living experience where heritage takes on a whole new dimension. It’s a bit like going on a getaway… without ever leaving the city. A fresh, playful, and truly captivating way to rediscover a place from a completely unexpected angle.
Suggested Activity: For an outing that is both fascinating and quite original, head to Compton to discover the Économusée La Forge d’Ilmarinen. The tour along with the workshops offered here will have you learn more about the delicate and very meticulous art of ironwork and clockmaking.
Where to Stay? The brand-new Hôtel Coaticook is perfect for you! Located at the entrance of Parc de la Gorge, it’s the ideal spot to also enjoy the region’s attractions. This heritage building has been fully renovated to offer modern, self-service rooms.
July 2 to July 4, 2026
The Sherblues Festival is back to get you grooving with over 60 performances presented right in the heart of downtown Sherbrooke. Every street corner, terrace, and unexpected venue transforms into eclectic stages featuring a mix of international artists and Québec talent. New this year: an exclusive program presented at the legendary Théâtre Granada. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind festival experience!
Suggested Activities: Explore Sherbrooke’s rich history with Radcliff, a new audio-immersive experience transporting you to the gorge of the Magog River and the Winter Prison. Download the application on your cellphone, put on your headsets - available at the Sherbrooke Tourism Office - and enjoy a guided interpretation of these intriguing tales.
Where to Stay? Hôtel Le Président is a perfect choice! Whether for one night or a full week, you can enhance your stay with relaxing modern amenities: a large indoor pool, a comfortable spa, and an outdoor terrace. Note that the hotel has been awarded the Bienvenue cyclistes! certification by Vélo Québec.
August 6 to August 8, 2026
Whether you’re a fan of emerging musical talents or a loyal supporter of Québec’s top performing artists, you’ll enjoy this special event under the star-filled skies of Lac-Mégantic. Developed and based on mindful values, the Festival Colline celebrates togetherness and respect for the environment in a family-friendly, communal setting. This year, you’ll notably be able to see Pierre Lapointe, Kaïn, Lou-Adriane Cassidy, and more than 20 other artists from a wide range of musical styles perform live on stage. Please note, the activities will unfold during the Perseid meteor shower, in the world’s first International Dark Sky Reserve, on Mount Mégantic… A not-to-be-missed moment!
Suggested Activity: Escape the August heat by heading to the gold, sandy beach of the Station Touristique de la Baie-des-sables, just a few minutes from the festival grounds. Need to get moving? Rent a kayak, a canoe or a paddleboard to explore the vastness of Lake Mégantic and its mountain panoramas.
Where to Stay? For a touch of novelty with an exceptional view of the lake, reserve a room at La Captainerie, a new Lac-Mégantic accommodation. Would you like to save some money without needing to compromise? Set your tent on one of the many campsites or enjoy a ready-to-camp unit at Camping Aventure Mégantic.
June 10 to August 15, 2026
This summer, immerse yourself inside this special musical experience in the heart of the Parc National du Mont-Orford. Canada’s first classical music festival proposes a highly refined program with at least ten professional concerts, about forty free performances by the Académie Orford Musique students, plus some truly fascinating exhibitions. Between these fine-tuned performances and amazing discoveries, the event also features magical venues such as the Marais de la Rivière-aux-Cerises.
It’s a breath of culture and beauty for both art and nature lovers or enthusiasts.
Suggested Activity: Head on board Les Croisières L’Air du Lac to discover the captivating shores of Lake Memphremagog. Comfortably seated on board a 12-guest pontoon, you’ll enjoy such packages as “La route du monstre” or their “Happy-Hour” program and feel you’ve really taken a vacation.
Where to Stay? L’Estrimont is the perfect place to stay for those who want to be just steps away from Orford Musique while remaining close to the many activities the region has to offer. Hot tubs, saunas, a pool, and more! And yes—pets are welcome too!
June 4 to June 6, 2026
The Festival au Lac de Granby is a major music event dedicated to punk, rock, and metal, held in early June at Daniel-Johnson Park along the shores of Lake Boivin in Granby. This outdoor celebration draws thousands of fans with its mix of international and local artists, food zones, skate shows, and an electrifying atmosphere. Take the opportunity to discover international acts such as Chevelle, The Planet Smashers, Deadly Apples, and many more!
Suggested Activity: Wander through downtown Granby and take the opportunity to try some of its excellent restaurants (Esmond, Maison Boire, C’est Belge, Pavane, and more!).
Where to Stay? Le Saint-Christophe, Hôtel Boutique et Spa—with its bistro, Nordic spa, and European charm—is a great choice for the whole family.
Arts, culture and heritage
11 Festivals for a Totally Musical Summer in the Townships
