Departure 2026, a multi-disciplinary festival and conference, returns next spring with an expanded footprint, high-profile honourees, and a programme that reflects the global influence of Toronto’s creative scene. With live music, industry conversations, and cultural recognition unfolding across iconic venues, the 2026 edition signals a major evolution for one of Canada’s most forward-looking festivals.

New Departure Honours Spotlight Global Cultural Leaders

One of the most talked-about additions to Departure 2026 is the launch of the Departure Honours, presented by Ticketmaster — a new programme celebrating creative excellence across disciplines.

The inaugural honourees include Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Sarah McLachlan, KPop Demon Hunters creator and co-director Maggie Kang, acclaimed writer, director, and producer Jacob Tierney, and literary trailblazer Rupi Kaur. Kaur will also headline a special Departure event at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, blending spoken word, performance, and cultural storytelling into the festival’s live experience.

The honours reflect Departure’s mission to celebrate creators whose work shapes culture far beyond traditional genre boundaries.

Influential Voices Headline the Departure Conference

The Departure Conference continues to attract some of the most influential figures in entertainment, media, and music. In 2026, attendees can expect candid conversations with leaders who have helped define global pop culture and industry innovation.

The speaker lineup includes internationally recognised comedian Russell Peters, Warped Tour founder and music industry legend Kevin Lyman, and Amber Grimes, EVP and General Manager of LVRN Records. Also taking the stage is Jenna Andrews, the Grammy-nominated songwriter behind chart-topping hits for BTS and KPop Demon Hunters, whose work was featured on Netflix’s Hitmakers. Together, the speakers offer insight into creativity, leadership, and the future of the industry.

Live Performances and Festival Highlights Announced

Live music remains at the heart of Departure, and the 2026 festival programme delivers both exclusivity and discovery. Highlights announced to date include a special 10th anniversary Massey Hall performance by platinum-selling indie trio Wild Rivers, along with Tommy Genesis at The Great Hall.

The SiriusXM Spotlight Series also returns, taking over The Mod Club to showcase Canadian artists Katie Tupper, Sacha, Chxrry, and jev. More performances, installations, and cultural experiences are expected to be announced in the coming months.

Live Music Awards Return on May 6

The Live Music Awards make their return to Departure on May 6, presented in partnership with the Canadian Live Music Association. Recognising excellence across Canada’s live music ecosystem, the awards celebrate artists, venues, promoters, and industry professionals. Tickets and nominations open February 2, inviting national participation.

Departure 2026 Becomes a Walkable Downtown Festival

In a major shift, Departure 2026 expands into downtown Toronto, transforming the event into a walkable, transit-accessible campus. Main stages will be hosted at the St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts and the historic Fairmont Royal York, placing the festival at the centre of the city’s cultural and business districts.

A new addition, Departure House at 58 Berkeley Street, will debut as an immersive pop-up destination featuring brand activations, curated experiences, and specialised programming. The move captures Toronto’s energy while making the festival more accessible and interconnected than ever before.

With expanded programming, high-profile cultural recognition, and a bold new downtown footprint, Departure 2026 is positioned as a must-attend event for music fans, creatives, and industry insiders alike — and one of the city’s most anticipated cultural moments of the year.