October 29–31, 2026 · Orillia, Ontario
Festival
Schedule
Three days of folk music inspiration in tribute to the memory of Gordon Lightfoot — food, entertainment, memories, and stories from Gord's extended family and friends.
Tickets for all individual Friday & Saturday events — and a special all-events package — are available now.
Full Program
Three Days of
Music & Memory
Proclamation of Gordon Lightfoot Day
Lightfoot Auditorium, Orillia Opera House · 20 Mississaga St W
Join us at the Orillia Opera House for the official proclamation of 'Gordon Lightfoot Day' in the City of Orillia — a fitting start to the weekend.
The Lightfoot Band Concert
Lightfoot Auditorium, Orillia Opera House · 20 Mississaga St W
An authentic concert experience with Gordon's original band members. Tickets priced in three tiers: $68, $50, and a special youth price of $18 for those under 18, available through the Orillia Opera House Box Office.
Youth Singing Competition & Lightfoot Band Presentation
Creative Nomad Studios · 23 Mississaga St W, Orillia
An afternoon singing competition showcasing talented local youth performing Lightfoot favorites, followed by an informal in-person chat session with the Lightfoot Band and special guests. Full competition details →
Choir Revolution & Lightfoot Stories
Creative Nomad Studios · 23 Mississaga St W, Orillia
Music professional Brett Caswell will teach the audience a Gordon Lightfoot song in harmony, culminating in a video of everyone performing together. Followed by stories of Gordon shared by special guests, and a sing-along of favourite Lightfoot songs. Space is limited.
Lightheaded: A Gordon Lightfoot State of Mind — Film Screening
Quayle's Brewery · 4567 Line 12 N, Coldwater, Ontario
Back by popular demand — this documentary celebrates and chronicles Gordon Lightfoot's extraordinary career by taking viewers on a journey into the lives of his devoted fans.
Lightfoot Tribute Performances
Quayle's Brewery · 4567 Line 12 N, Coldwater, Ontario
Live performances from The High Steppin' Strutters, Samantha Windover, and the world premiere of new act Martin & Martin. Plus Youth Competition winners perform live, and a cake cutting celebrating the life of Gordon Lightfoot.
Special Event
Youth Singing
Competition
For the first time ever, the Lightfoot Festival is hosting a Youth Singing Competition. Young performers will sing a Gordon Lightfoot song of their choosing before a panel of judges — and the top contestants will perform for none other than the Lightfoot Band themselves.
Winners will be invited to perform again Saturday afternoon at Quayle's Brewery. Who knows — we may find the next great Canadian artist.
Learn MoreCompetition Details
- ✦Open to youth up to age 18 (including grade 12)
- ✦Sing any Gordon Lightfoot song of your choice
- ✦Contestants must supply their own accompaniment
- ✦Friday afternoon, October 30 at Creative Nomad
- ✦Top performers judged by Lightfoot Band members
- ✦Prizes awarded to top three contestants