Ottawa music fans have a lot to look forward to this summer — CityFolk has officially announced its 2026 lineup, and it's a big one.
The festival, one of Ottawa's most cherished annual outdoor music events, has revealed that Alabama Shakes, Alice Cooper, and Cameron Whitcomb will headline this year's edition. It's an eclectic mix that spans soulful rock, classic rock royalty, and rising indie talent — and it signals that CityFolk continues to push the boundaries of what a "folk festival" can look and sound like.
A New Home for CityFolk
Alongside the lineup news, organizers also confirmed a significant change for 2026: CityFolk is moving venues. The festival will no longer be held at its longtime home of Lansdowne Park, which is currently undergoing major construction as part of the Lansdowne 2.0 redevelopment project.
Instead, this year's festival will take place at the RA Centre in Ottawa's Alta Vista neighbourhood. The RA Centre — a community and entertainment hub near the Rideau River — offers a different but intimate vibe compared to the expansive grounds at Lansdowne. For long-time festivalgoers, it'll be a new experience, but one that could bring a closer, more community-festival feel to the event.
Who's Performing?
Alabama Shakes need little introduction. The Athens, Alabama-born band — now effectively the solo vehicle for powerhouse vocalist Brittany Howard — are celebrated for their electrifying live performances and Grammy-winning blend of soul, blues, and indie rock. If you've never seen them live, this is a bucket-list moment.
Alice Cooper is nothing short of a rock legend. With a career spanning over five decades and classics like School's Out and Poison, the shock-rock icon is still one of the most theatrical and entertaining live acts in the game. His appearance at a folk festival is characteristically unexpected — and that's exactly what makes it exciting.
Cameron Whitcomb rounds out the headliners with a distinctly modern, rootsy sound. The Australian singer-songwriter has been making waves internationally with his raw guitar work and confessional songwriting style, and his inclusion signals CityFolk's commitment to spotlighting emerging talent alongside established names.
What to Expect
CityFolk has grown into one of the signature events on Ottawa's summer calendar, drawing locals and visitors alike to celebrate music across genres. While the venue shift may take some adjusting to, the RA Centre's central location and dedicated event facilities should make for a smooth experience.
Full schedule details, ticket information, and additional acts are expected to be announced in the coming weeks. Keep an eye on CityFolk's official website and social channels for updates.
In the meantime, mark your calendars — summer 2026 in Ottawa just got a whole lot more exciting.
Source: CBC Ottawa. Full details at cbc.ca
