Just a couple of hours from the rush of Toronto, something magical unfolds every July at Guelph Lake Conservation Area. From July 18–20, 2025, Hillside Festival returns with all the ingredients of a perfect Canadian summer: lakeside camping, live music, yoga under the trees, and a community vibe you can’t fake.
Celebrating its 40th year on the island and 42nd overall, Hillside is more than just a music festival — it’s a community tradition wrapped in green values, indie spirit, and good vibes. Named Canada’s Best Small Festival by the Canadian Live Music Industry Awards in 2024, it’s one of those rare events that still feels personal… but don’t let that fool you. Hillside draws a powerhouse lineup of emerging and established artists across genres and generations, all while staying deeply committed to diversity, inclusion, and sustainability.
If you love a side of mindfulness with your mainstage experience, Hillside’s got you. Expect everything from Laughter Yoga and Ayurvedic massage workshops to visible mending, pollinator-friendly gardening, and even build-your-own skateboard classes. The festival’s hands-on programming is a huge part of its charm — it’s where you come to sing, dance, and maybe learn a little something too.
This year, Hillside also released additional campsites — a rare find during peak summer season — giving you the chance to snag a spot in one of Ontario’s most scenic campgrounds. Festival-goers can enjoy kayak and canoe rentals, wooded trails, pristine swimming, and even birdwatching between sets.
Sustainability is more than a buzzword here — it’s a way of life. Hillside has earned numerous awards for its green operations, from zero-waste initiatives and dishwashing stations to bike-friendly transport and a festival-wide trash turnaround. Oh, and yes, there’s an OPP escort for cyclists riding home at night.
Tickets and campsites are on sale now at 👉 www.hillsidefestival.ca. Whether you’re going solo, with friends, or bringing the whole family, Hillside Festival offers the perfect blend of music, nature, and community to make your summer unforgettable.
🎫 Don’t wait — the water’s warm, the lineup’s fire, and the vibes? Immaculate.
Photo Credit: Hillside Festival 2024, photographer Jeff Bersche
Leave a Reply