George Street Festival: 40 Years of Music, Magic, and Newfoundland Soul
- James Tarrant
- Jul 29
- 3 min read
If you’ve ever walked down George Street in the summer, you know—it’s not just a street, it’s a living pulse. And when the George Street Festival hits, that pulse becomes a full-blown celebration of music, community, and the soul of Newfoundland.
How It All Started
In 1985, a simple idea sparked a legacy: bring people together through live music on North America’s most legendary party strip. What began as a modest street party with local bands has become a six-night festival that draws thousands of revellers nationwide.
Changing With the Times
The festival has evolved from a folk and traditional gathering into a genre-blending powerhouse:
It has hosted legends like Kenny Rogers, Sam Roberts Band, Our Lady Peace, and Blue Rodeo
Spotlighted Newfoundland icons: Buddy Wasisname and the Other Fellers, The Irish Descendants, and Rum Ragged
For local musicians, performing on George Street is a milestone moment—career-launching, unforgettable, and deeply rooted in community pride
The 40th Anniversary Lineup
July 31: Alt-pop brilliance from Arkells and Neon Dreams
August 1: Rootsy Canadiana courtesy of Blue Rodeo and Kellie Loder
August 2: Kitchen Party throwdown with Celtic Connection, The Punters, and Kitchinparti
August 3: EDM firepower with DJ Pauly D and JBILLZ
August 4: Blues-rock magic from Big Sugar and Canada’s Got Talent winner Jacob Lewis
August 5: Newfoundland Pride closing act with Shanneyganock and Rum Ragged
August 6: A surprise headliner still under wraps—but guaranteed to be legendary
Special Features for 40 Years Strong
When the sun goes down, the party doesn’t stop—each night of the George Street Festival wraps with massive after-show dance parties, turning the entire street into a vibrant open-air club pulsing with energy.
Festivalgoers can mark the milestone year in style with exclusive limited-edition merch, celebrating four decades of legendary music. Hungry? Local vendors are turning out in full force, serving everything from moose sliders to partridgeberry cocktails, offering an authentic taste of Newfoundland.
And the excitement builds toward the final night, when a surprise headliner—still tightly under wraps—promises to end the week on a high note. Meanwhile, fans can join the #GSF40Years photo contest to show off their best festival moments for a chance to win VIP passes to next year’s celebration.
All of this comes with heart: some proceeds support youth music programs throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, making the festival a party and a legacy in motion.
Insider Tips for Festival-Goers
If you want to make the most of your George Street Festival experience, head for the decks at Rock House or Rob Roy—those railings offer some of the best stage views in the city, plus easy access to all your beverage needs. Once you’ve got your ticket, you’re set: no cover charges at any venue, so you can roam the street freely and soak it all in.
The festival also encourages sustainability, so bring a reusable cup and be part of the planet-friendly party. And don’t forget to play with a classic St. John’s tradition—Regatta Roulette. Will the boat races go ahead the next morning, or will we all wake up groggy, questioning our life choices with glitter still on our cheeks? Only the wind (and the weather) knows for sure.
Local Lore & Legendary Moments
The year the power cut out and the crowd finished the show by singing a cappella—iconic
That time, a moose strolled through soundcheck—only in Newfoundland
Rumours fly every year about surprise artists hopping on stage—some real, some tall tales, all unforgettable
The Street That Sings
Forty years young, the George Street Festival isn’t just a party but a living legend. It’s where stories are sung, danced, and toasted under summer stars. To the nights we’ll never forget, the artists who made history, and the street that keeps echoing with pride, music, and belonging—here’s to 40 more.
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