May 14th -17th, 2026

Paddlefest is a music and nature festival held every spring in the small seaside community of St. Andrews, New Brunswick. Paddlefest takes place on the beautiful natural world around Qonaskamkuk (St. Andrews), the unceded territory of the Peskotomuhkati Nation.

The 4 day festival combines music, art, recreational activities and environmental events for a jam packed weekend of fun that brings St. Andrews alive for the busy tourism season. The festival combines a passion for music & art and the natural world, and explores the connection between the two.

From headlining performances at the Wharfbound Main Stage to smaller shows in community venues to tons of free programming, there’s lots to discover and enjoy

Activities include guided kayaking trips with local companies and the annual Wharfbound Trail Run, a fun run along the ocean floor! There’s also an annual beach clean up, yoga, an environmental fair, the Paddlefest Artist Market, kids events, food vendors and much more.

FESTIVAL FAQ

For 30 years, Paddlefest has been a celebration of culture and nature in the seaside town of St. Andrews. Paddlefest is a multi-faceted festival that combines music, art, outdoor activities and environmental events over a 4 day span. Every May St. Andrews comes alive with music at multiple venues including the Wharfbound Main Stage located in the town’s Market Square. The festival also hosts recreational activities and environmental events.
While a majority of programming at the Wharfbound Main Stage is 19+ a number of other venues and events are open to all ages. Paddlefest annually hosts a free kid’s concert at the Huntsman Marine Science Centre to celebrate their opening weekend. Many of the weekend’s activities/events are family friendly including the beach clean up, the artist market and more. Stay tuned for a full list of family friendly events

Paddlefest offers a few different types of Passes for its programming. The The Weekend Pass is for those festival thrill seekers who want to see as much music as possible, as it grants access to all official programming throughout the 4 days (some venues are subject to capacity).
The Main Stage Pass includes access to all Main Stage shows from Thursday through Sunday.
The Periwinkle Pass is an option for our more intimate venues. This includes access to shows in smaller community venues like cafes, galleries and event spaces.
Individual tickets for all shows and venues will also be available!
Folding chairs are generally not permitted during Main Stage shows, except for afternoon and early evening shows. There are seating options available at the Wharfbound Main Stage (i.e. bleachers, picnic tables). If you have any mobility issues or have questions regarding accessibility please contact us.
We ask that you do not bring any of the following to the Main Stage:
Drugs or Alcohol, Outside Food or Beverages, Weapons, Large Bags/Knapsacks, Cameras with a Flash, Pets or Poor Attitudes!
Paddlefest is jam-packed with music, outdoor activities and community events so there’s always something to take in! St. Andrews also offers a variety of unique locally owned shops, cafes and restaurants, many of which are situated along Water Street. We encourage you to check out free programming and events, grab a drink or food at a local restaurant and check out all the great stories, galleries and attractions St. Andrews has to offer!

We recommend staying with one of our great Accommodation Partners! Most accommodations are within walking distance of Water Street / Wharfbound Main Stage and activites.
Check here for a f ull directory of local accommodations.
In the event of rain and/or heavy winds, paddling and outdoor activities may be rescheduled or cancelled. Outdoor events may also be moved to an indoor location if applicable. Please check our website and social media pages for up date information regarding changes due to weather.