May 20th -23rd, 2027

Paddlefest is a music and nature festival held every spring in the small seaside community of St. Andrews, New Brunswick.

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.

Paddlefest takes place on the beautiful natural world around Qonaskamkuk, the unceded territory of the Peskotomuhkati Nation.

FESTIVAL FAQ

For over 30 years Paddlefest has been a celebration of both culture and nature in the small seaside town of St. Andrews. NB. Paddlefest today operates as a 4 day festival that combines music, art, outdoor activities and environmental events for a full weekend of fun. Every May St. Andrews comes alive, with music at multiple venues including the Wharfbound Main Stage located in the town square as well as programming at community venues like theatres, cafes and more . Simultaneously, the festival hosts recreational activities such as paddling events, yoga and a trail run, and environmental events such as the NGO Environmental Fair, a beach clean up and more.
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.

Paddlefest offers a few different types of Passes for its music programming. Weekend Passes are for those festival thrill seekers who want to see as much music as possible, as this pass grants access to all official programming throughout the 4 days (some venues are subject to capacity).
The Main Stage Pass includes access to all Wharfbound Main Stage shows (Thursday -Sunday)
The Periwinkle Pass is an option for the more intimate venues with admission to shows in smaller community venues like cafes, galleries and theatres.
Individual tickets for all shows are also available.
Paddlefest happens right in the centre of town, with the Wharfbound Main Stage located in the town square. There are numerous accommodations within walking distance of Water Street / Wharfbound Main Stage and activities. We recommend staying with one of our Accommodation Partners. Here is a f ull directory of local accommodations.
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 stop into the great shops and attractions St. Andrews has to offer.

Due to capacity and firecode regulations, Folding chairs are generally not permitted at the Main Stage, except for afternoon and early evening shows. There are seating options available at the Wharfbound Main Stage such as bleachers and 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 venues:
Drugs or Alcohol, Outside Food or Beverages, Weapons, Large Bags/Knapsacks, Cameras with a Flash, Pets or Poor Attitudes!
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.