A New Chapter for Live Music in Regina

This Saturday, August 8, a new tradition begins as the Exchange Folk Festival makes its debut in Regina. While it carries forward the community spirit and love of live music that generations of festival-goers cherished, this is very much the beginning of something new—an event designed to celebrate Saskatchewan’s creative community while building a sustainable future for live music in our city.

Following the closure of the Regina Folk Festival, a significant cultural gap was left behind. The Saskatchewan Cultural Exchange Society has stepped forward to help fill that space, creating a community-driven festival that is more accessible, more inclusive, and built to grow for years to come.

And what a way to begin.

The inaugural lineup features an outstanding mix of Saskatchewan favourites and nationally acclaimed artists. The day opens with Shannon Elizabeth, followed by Black Thunder, The Ron Loos Experience, Zoe James and the Wistful Daydreams, Hard Feelings, Andino Suns, Black Tea, The North Sound, Kara Golemba, and Indigo Joseph before closing the evening with an incredible trio of performances from The Sadies, The Besnard Lakes, and Foxwarren.

It’s a lineup that reflects exactly what folk festivals have always done best—bringing together artists from different musical backgrounds to create a day built around discovery, community, and exceptional live performances. From Indigenous music and singer-songwriters to indie rock, folk, roots, and psychedelic sounds, there’s something for every music fan.

Beyond the music, the Exchange Folk Festival represents an investment in Regina’s cultural future. Events like this create opportunities for local musicians, strengthen the arts community, and provide spaces where people can gather around a shared love of live music. Building something meaningful takes time, and community support will play a vital role in helping this new festival thrive.

If you’re able, consider making a donation or signing up as a volunteer. Every contribution helps ensure this can become another signature summer event for Regina for years to come.

A special thank you also goes out to the festival’s founding sponsors, whose support has made this inaugural event possible. Their commitment to live music and the arts is helping launch what promises to become an exciting new tradition for our city.

If you’re looking for a great way to spend your Saturday, head down to the Exchange Folk Festival, discover some incredible artists, reconnect with friends, and help celebrate the beginning of a new chapter in Regina’s live music story.

You can find the full lineup, festival information, volunteer opportunities, and ways to support the festival on the Exchange Folk Festival website.

We’ll see you there.

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