Get Ready for the Rhythm: Francos de Montréal Kicks Off the Festival Season!
Montreal is officially entering its most vibrant time of year. The city is transforming into a massive open-air stage, and leading the charge is the legendary Francos de Montréal. With hundreds of performances scheduled until June 20, the festival is the heartbeat of the metropolis, celebrating the richness of French-language music in all its forms.
Whether you are a die-hard fan of the Quebec scene or a tourist looking for the best local vibes, attending free shows is the best way to experience the city. To help you plan your summer, we’ve curated a list of 10 must-see free concerts that will define your festival experience.
📅 The Must-See Lineup: Save These Dates!
- Kassav’ – The Zouk Legends
Experience the infectious energy of the Antilles! The pioneers of Zouk, Kassav’, return to Montreal for the first time since 2015. Expect a night of high-energy dance and Caribbean rhythms.
When: Friday, June 12 at 9 PM | Where: Scène Rogers - Ariane Roy – Raw Energy
Known for her intense stage presence, Ariane Roy brings her Dogue tour to the festival. Her blend of rock, electro, and pop promises to be one of the most powerful shows of the season.
When: Saturday, June 13 at 9 PM | Where: Scène Rogers - Groovy Aardvark – 40 Years of Rock
A treat for the nostalgic! This alternative rock staple celebrates four decades of existence. Don’t miss this reunion of a band that shaped the Longueuil music scene.
When: Saturday, June 13 at 8 PM | Where: Scène Loto-Québec - Tribute to Jean Leloup’s “Le Dôme”
One of the most iconic albums in Quebec history turns 30. A new generation of artists, including Klô Pelgag and Safia Nolin, will reinterpret the 14 tracks of this cult masterpiece.
When: Sunday, June 14 at 9 PM | Where: Scène Rogers - Gab Bouchard – Rock & Soul
Blending organic folk sounds from his latest album with a relentless rock-and-roll delivery, Gab Bouchard is guaranteed to bring the emotion and the noise.
When: Wednesday, June 17 at 9 PM | Where: Scène Rogers - VioleTT Pi – The Punk Avant-Garde
Expect the unexpected. VioleTT Pi mixes punk, electro, and poetry in a theatrical performance that is as eccentric as it is captivating.
When: Wednesday, June 17 at 9:30 PM | Where: Scène Spotify - Rapkeb Night – A Hip-Hop Celebration
A massive tribute to the 10th anniversary of the first hip-hop opening night. With stars like Parazar, Koriass, Loud, and the “Prince of Franco-Haitian Rap,” Rymz, this is the peak of urban music.
When: Thursday, June 18 starting at 7 PM | Where: Scène Rogers & Scène Desjardins - Dead Obies – The Grand Reunion
After a five-year hiatus, the hip-hop collective returns to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Gesamtkunstwerk. This will be one of the most anticipated reunions of the summer.
When: Friday, June 19 at 8 PM | Where: Scène Loto-Québec - Alphonse Bisaillon – The Rising Star
Looking for a hidden gem? Discover the versatile sounds of Alphonse Bisaillon, a chameleon artist influenced by both jazz and chanson, at a more intimate venue.
When: Saturday, June 20 at 7 PM | Where: Pub Brasseur de Montréal - Ariane Moffatt – The Grand Finale
Closing the festival with elegance, Ariane Moffatt brings her luminous electro-pop sound and a repertoire spanning two decades to wrap up the event in style.
When: Saturday, June 20 at 8 PM | Where: Scène Rogers
💡 Pro Tips for Enjoying Francos de Montréal
To make the most of your experience, we recommend arriving early at the Scène Rogers and Scène Loto-Québec, as these free shows draw massive crowds. Also, don’t forget to explore the surrounding bars and pubs where emerging artists often perform off-stage.
For more information on the full schedule and venue maps, visit the official Francos de Montréal website or check out the Tourisme Montréal guide for the best spots to eat and stay during the festival.
Whether you’re into Zouk, Rap, or Indie Rock, the Francos de Montréal have something for everyone. See you in the crowd!
