Nothing truly captures the heart and soul of the Island’s culture like our live music. From traditional Celtic and folk music to contemporary hip-hop, PEI has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a lively night of dancing or an intimate patio performance, the Island’s live entertainment will not disappoint. Here’s our roundup of the best places to experience live music on the Island:

Ceilidh’s

One of PEI’s longest standing (and most heartwarming traditions) is coming together for a Ceilidh. Local performers flaunt their talents in intimate music halls, community centres, and churches to entertain audiences throughout the Island. Enjoy toe tappin’ music like a true blue Islander this summer at one of our favourite ceilidh’s!

• Ross Family Ceilidh
• Georgetown Ceilidh
• Stanley Bridge Hall Ceilidhs
• Ceilidh in the City
• Ceilidh at the Irish Hall

Ross Family Ceilidh

The Chaissons at Stanley Bridge Hall Ceilidhs

Richard Wood at Ceilidh at the Irish Hall | Photo by Berni Wood

Festivals

Festivals are the perfect way to showcase the talents of multiple Island performers and musicians, across many genres of music! Luckily, PEI is more than happy to entertain the masses with festival upon festival.

CBMF

Every July, Cavendish hosts the largest outdoor music festival in Atlantic Canada, the Cavendish Beach Music Festival! There’s always an impressive lineup of country music stars to perform over 3 days, plus opportunities for local artists to perform throughout the day.

July 5 – 7, 2024. 

Under The Spire Music Festival

This summer-long concert series takes place in a beautiful heritage church known for its incredible acoustics. Under the Spire Music Festival has welcomed PEI, Canadian and international artists to perform in St. Mary’s Church for nearly 30 years, and is loved deeply by locals and visitors alike!

June 9 – September 18^th 2023, check out their schedule here.

Festival of Small Halls

For two weeks in June, the sounds of Island music fill up over 40 community halls from tip to tip. The PEI Mutual Festival of Small Halls celebrates music, dance, and storytelling with warm Island hospitality.

June 14-23 2024.

Mont-Carmel Summer Concert Series

High-energy step dancing, powerful fiddle, and compelling song make up the Mont-Carmel Summer Concert Series. Some of the finest artists in Atlantic Canada perform at the Acadian series each year with incredible performances you won’t want to miss!

July 2 – August 27 2023.

Stompin’ Tom Festival Series

Canadian Icon Stompin’ Tom Connors loved to sing about Canada while stompin’ his boots to keep time. Stompin’ Tom Festival Series is a tribute to his legacy, and invites different musical guests to perform and showcase those Canadian talents.

June 10 – September 2023.

Cavendish Beach Music Festival

Lennie Gallant at Under The Spire Music Festival

Stompin’ Tom Centre

Open Air

Just picture it, you’re walking down the street when the soothing sounds of an acoustic setlist, or the rockin’ vibes of a hometown band electrify you. Local musicians perform on street sides, parks, and patios to give your PEI summer vacation a track list of its own.

Victoria Row

Always on Stage presents live music on historic Victoria row every afternoon and evening in the summer, giving you a great soundtrack as you dine al fresco or enjoy a nice stroll.

Sounds on the Waterfront

A brand new musical series has hit Charlottetown! Head over to Peake’s Quay Courtyard or the large patio at Founders’ Hall to enjoy the musical stylings of local musicians every day, all summer long.

Merchant Man Next Door

This charming patio comes to life with live music each week! Head Next Door on Thursdays, Fridays, or Saturdays to enjoy great drinks, great food and great tunes. Check out their social media for up to date schedules and line ups.

Charlottetown Beer Garden

Patio season is just better with music, and Charlottetown Beer Garden offers live music on their picturesque patio from 6pm-10pm EVERY DAY. You can peep their artist line up here!

Lieutenant Dan at The Charlottetown Beer Garden

The Next Door at Merchantman

Restaurants & Bars

It’s just fact, food tastes better when there’s live music playing.  Thankfully PEI has plenty of delicious restaurants and bars that come with a side of local talent! Here’s a list of our faves.

• Olde Dublin Pub: Live music daily on the Guinness stage.
• Bogside Brewery: Every Friday, Saturday & Sun.
• Lone Oak: Visit the Beer Garden in Cavendish for live music Thursday to Sunday, or to the Brewpub in Charlottetown for great tunes Friday to Sunday.
• Evermoore Brewing Co: Check out their live music performances on Tuesdays, or their Celtic Jam on Saturdays.
• The Brickhouse: Head up to Marcs Lounge for cozy vibes and live music.
• Mill River: Callaghan’s Restaurant and Bar features live music on Wednesday and Friday evenings all year.

The Guinness Stage at the Olde Dublin Pub

The Hounds – Tyler Childers Tribute at Trailside Music Hall | Photo from Taylor Buote

Callaghan’s Restaurant and Bar | Photo by Caley Joy Photography