Gananoque’s Le FestivÎLES Charts a New Course for Summer Fun

Le FestivÎLES, a bilingual celebration of arts, culture and community, returns to Gananoque this summer with a lineup as inclusive as it is vibrant. What began in 2022 as a grassroots revival now stands tall on the calendar. It’s a long weekend where heritage and creativity meet on stage, in the park and along the waterfront.

Le FestivÎLES offers a fresh, fun approach with programming for kids, families, art lovers and tourists looking to discover something off the beaten path.

It’s also intentionally bilingual, making it one of the only festivals of its kind in the Thousand Islands region. The event reflects Canada’s official language policy and a growing recognition of the area’s French-Canadian roots, from Loyalist-era settlers to contemporary newcomers who continue to bring cultural richness to the community.

Now entering its fifth year, Le FestivÎLES 2026 runs from July 30 to Aug. 2, with a lineup that’s equal parts playful and purposeful.

What to Expect in 2026

Gananoque’s downtown and waterfront will once again come alive with sights and sounds that animate every corner of the community.

Sugar Crush is a Canadian female trad-country-folk duo or band founded in 2017, comprised of singer-songwriters Joanie Charron and Marie-Soleil Provost. Known for their high-energy performances and harmonies, the Franco-Ontarian duo or band has been active on the country music scene and often features guitarist Kevin Daoust during their live performances. Winners of the Public Choice Award at the 2022 Gala Country.

Kristine St-Pierre is an award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter with soul-searching ballads and a rollicking country flair.  She weaves together a rich blend of folk, roots, and country music, captivating listeners with both English and French lyrics. Described as a ‘chansonnière’ with a traveling heart,’ Kristine's songs create an emotional journey that transcends language and genre.

The Juggling Chef, a creative performer and teacher, a guest in over 800 schools, a classically trained actress, puppeteer, juggler, musician, spoken word artist and all-around entertainer, MarLa is passionate about creating fun environments for learning, healing and performing. 

There’s even more to enjoy throughout the weekend thanks to generous sponsorships from the Province of Ontario, City Cruises, ACFOMI, Centre Culturel Frontenac,  Downtown Gananoque BIA and the Town of Gananoque.

A Nod to the Past

For those who remember the Festival of the Islands, the echoes are unmistakable. Outdoor music, artisan vendors, community gathering spots, and the embrace of summer’s final hurrah enticed people from miles around. But Le FestivÎLES is no tribute act. It’s a festival with its own identity, guided by today’s values: inclusivity, accessibility, bilingualism and cultural diversity.

It’s leaner, more responsive, and driven by a mix of municipal support and grassroots volunteerism. It builds on familiar traditions but adds its unique spin.

The Town of Gananoque, alongside tourism partners like Travel 1000 Islands, has invested in making Le FestivÎLES a regional draw, one that complements the town’s already thriving summer scene, which includes boat tours, art galleries, theatre productions and lively downtown patios.

What stands out most about Le FestivÎLES is the sense of ownership. This is a festival that belongs to the community. Volunteers, musicians, artists and local business owners all play a role in shaping its success.

Festivals like this one provide a safe, welcoming space to gather, create and celebrate. They are moments of joy, and Gananoque knows how to throw a good party.

Pair your visit with a Gananoque boat tour, a show at the Thousand Islands Playhouse, or a stay at one of the region’s scenic accommodations.

For the latest schedule, accessibility details and vendor or volunteer opportunities, visit gananoque.ca or travel1000islands.ca.