Purple City Music Festival is returning to downtown Edmonton from September 11 to 13. The festival will celebrate new, exciting artists, local talent and music straight from the underground. This all-ages festival will showcase some of the best of the best from Canada and around the world, and includes an eclectic mix of genres — anything from punk rock to indie, folk and more.
Shows will take place in different venues across the downtown core, turning the city into a vibrant celebration of music. The festival will also feature panels and public programming while amplifying new and celebrated talent, including Sook-Yin Lee (pictured above) and Johnny Jewel.
Here are five must-see artists performing at Purple City Music Festival 2026. Find more details, including ticket info, at the event’s website.
cherry pick
cherry pick’s music is feverish and dreamy enough to pull you into a “Daze.” The artist got her start in the Vancouver underground scene, and the success of her new :3 EP means that people everywhere are starting to learn about her.
Chinese Medicine
These Exclaim! Class of 2025 grads will give you “Total Happiness” with their infectious blend of indie rock and punk that challenges and deconstructs the status quo. Their 2025 album The Trans Agenda touches on visibility, challenging systemic corruption and more.
Hot Garbage
Calling all the punks and freaks: these psych rockers will blow you away. This garage psych band are known for their electrifying performances and songs that are as “Soft as Gold.”
Johnny Jewel
Having performed in bands like Glass Candy, Chromatics and Desire, as well as founding the label Italians Do It Better, Johnny Jewel is at the forefront of Italo disco and darkwave movements from the past couple of decades. A master curator, he’s sure to offer a killer DJ set.
Sook-Yin Lee
This Vancouver native’s music is experimental and emotionally fulfilling. A former MuchMusic VJ and acclaimed filmmaker, her nw album 72RHR taps into the pulse of the heart.