In its 65th year, the Mariposa Folk Festival stands strong in music and community.
It’s not just about the tunes — it’s about creating lasting memories. Think of Mariposa as a hybrid between Hillside Festival and Riverfest Elora: music and workshops for all ages, a conscious effort to reduce waste, and a mission to leave the land as you found it.
Several stages lit up the weekend with thought-provoking songs and meaningful stories to take home.
Jessica Pearson and the East Wind
Nominated for Performer of the Year at the 2024 Folk Music Awards, Jessica and her trio bring a “fairy garden vibe” with sweet harmonies and infectious joy.
Les Hay Babies
One of New Brunswick’s hottest francophone bands. With high energy, matching outfits, and killer musicianship, there’s no question they’re having fun — no matter what language you speak.
Ruby Randall
Based in Toronto, Ruby’s jazz undertones and emotionally resonant songwriting explore vulnerability and longing, holding the listener close.
Irish Mythen
If you’ve never seen her live — fix that. On her 8th Mariposa performance, Irish delivered her signature mix of razor-sharp wit and heartfelt lyrics, earning a warm welcome from the crowd.
The Paper Kites
From Melbourne, Australia, their platinum-certified single “Bloom” and globe-spanning tours bring an easy-listening indie vibe wherever they go.
The East Pointers
This award-winning folk trio (now a duo) from PEI delivered their electro-trad, toe-tapping reels, filling the Pub Stage with dancers and incredible energy.
Langhorne Slim
An American songwriter with two decades of raw, emotional songs — crafted through years of playing dive bars and theaters.
The Sheepdogs
Juno Award winners from Saskatoon, delivering classic rock swagger, dueling guitar riffs, and three-part harmonies that lit up the Lightfoot Stage.
The Flamingos
From Guelph, Ontario — the ultimate party band with four-part harmonies, pink outfits, and a playlist guaranteed to get you dancing.
Born Ruffians
Formed in Midland, Ontario, these stage veterans packed the Pub Stage tight, showcasing their powerhouse, pulsing sound.
Basia Bulat
A multi-instrumentalist with rich soul and gospel undertones, Basia commanded the Lightfoot Stage with passion and depth.
Holly Cole
Canadian jazz singer and actress, back with her 13th album Dark Moon. After a midday rain, her soothing, powerful jazz filled the festival air beautifully.
Elisapie
An Inuk singer-songwriter, Juno winner, and international touring artist. Her emotional set included a stunning cover of Fleetwood Mac’s “Landslide” in memory of her brother.
Iron & Wine (Sam Beam)
From North Carolina, Sam has been weaving heartache and cinematic lyrics into his music for over a decade.
Sharon, Lois & Bram
With Sharon as the remaining member, she and her musician friends led kids in joyful sing-alongs at the Sunshine Stage.
That’s When I Need a Song (Workshop)
Featuring The Pairs (London, ON), Inn Echo (PEI), and Tiger Balm (Toronto). Sweet tones, captivating melodies, jigs, and beautiful harmonies filled the Estelle Klein Stage.
Willi Carlisle
Imagine a southern radio show brought to life — Willi’s charismatic, hilarious set (including three rounds of “Big Butt Billy”) had the crowd in stitches.
Blackie and the Rodeo Kings
Roots-rock veterans blending country, folk, and Americana, delivering high-energy guitar riffs and songs inspired by creativity even during the pandemic.
Serena Ryder
Seven-time Juno winner Serena Ryder took the audience on an emotional journey, joined on stage by Julian Taylor, Martha Wainwright, and Hawksley Workman.
Julian Taylor
With a deep, resonant voice, Julian tells powerful, soulful stories that captivate live audiences.
Martha Wainwright
Unapologetic and raw, Martha’s lyrics pull no punches — from “Bloody Mother Fucking Asshole” (featured on Orange Is the New Black) to “I Know You’re Married But I Have Feelings Too.”
Hawksley Workman
Known for his unique rock-cabaret style, Hawksley has been a prolific artist since 1998, captivating audiences with his musical monologues.
Hellion Ton (Nathan Coles)
With fingerstyle guitar and a voice reminiscent of Eddie Vedder, Nathan’s performances across workshops and stages delivered smooth, powerful rhythms.
Melbourne Ska Orchestra
From Melbourne, Australia, led by Nikki Bomba (former drummer for John Butler Trio), this high-energy orchestra closed out Mariposa with a packed stage, dancing crowd, and a musical history lesson on ska, swing, and Caribbean reggae influences.
My First Mariposa Folk Festival was awesome!
Huge thanks to Spencer Shewen, the organizers, and all the volunteers for putting on an incredible weekend. With new music discoveries, old favorites, sweet melodies, workshops, activities, and good vibes all around, Mariposa filled Tudhope Park in Orillia, Ontario, with joy.
This festival leaves you a little happier — and ready to shape the rest of your summer.