Calgary Events: Sled Island

Photo Source: steve louie

Sled Island is a Calgary music festival that began in 2007, and has been building momentum ever since. It runs from June 20th to 23rd throughout Calgary's downtown core.

Photo Source: steve louie

This festival is never the same from one year to the next, as it hosts hundreds of eclectic performances in over 30 different venues throughout the city. This year there are over 200 musical acts playing Sled Island, as well as comedy, film, and visual art.

The exciting, and daunting thing about Sled Island is the possibility of seeing so many different performances. Granted, it would be impossible to see every single act since different bands play at different venues at the same time, but that's all part of the fun!

Photo Source: starbright31

In looking over the lineup I can honestly say I am only familiar with maybe 10% of the artists, but that doesn't bother me. One great thing about this music festival is that it provides the opportunity to be exposed to new music, and the possibility of finding a new favourite band!


Local names such as Feist, The Dudes, Smalltown DJs, and Samantha Savage Smith will be making appearances and representing our city as the cultural centre it's working to be. Personally I am proud that our city can host events like Sled Island, whoever says Calgary isn't a cultural city is wrong! I challenge any non-believers to attend a Sled Island show, or two, or three, and see if your opinions about Calgary are challenged. 


Is anyone planning on attending Sled Island this year? Who are you planning to see, and do you have any recommendations? Please let me know!

Photo Source: DCZwick