Free Vaughan International Music Festival returns for 2 nights of live rock and country
Get ready for a world-class live music experience — Vaughan International Music Festival (VIMF) is returning this July 17 and 18 for its fifth year running.
The heart of the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre at Assembly Park will be transformed into a massive cultural crossroads. Visitors can expect a massive main stage, a world-class sound and lighting production, and live music from 12 breakout Canadian rock and country artists.
It's two high-energy nights full of guaranteed fun — and best of all, it's totally free! Plus, being just a short stroll from the subway, bike-and-scooter friendly, and minutes from the 400 and 407, getting there is easy.
The story behind the festival
This isn't your generic weekend block party. VIMF was inspired by founder Sandra Yeung Racco's real lived experiences.
Arriving in Canada decades ago, Yeung Racco's family faced racism and social isolation. Through such difficult times, it was the universal melody of music that gave her a voice, confidence, and an unbreakable identity.
"Musicians don't always get the recognition they deserve. Like doctors, lawyers, or engineers, they spend years mastering their craft — investing time, energy, and heart — but unless they're 'famous,' they're often overlooked," Yeung Racco said.
That's why it was so important to her to make VIMF accessible for all and free to attend — it fiercely rejects industry gatekeeping, and is all about spotlighting underrepresented, rising local talent.
The festival also supports the VIMF Creative Futures Scholarship Program, which actively dismantles financial barriers for young musicians. So, while you're enjoying two nights of music and fun, you'll know you're doing something good to support aspiring artists in your community.
What to expect at VIMF
For the first night of VIMF, it's all about rock n' roll. Guests can expect to rock out to headliners BRKN LOVE, alongside Bleeker, Sticks n' Stones, and more.
Unleash your inner cowboy on night two, where things take a full-on country turn! The lineup features Myles Erlick, Ryan Langdon, and Jade Hilton, among others.
You can also expect food trucks and a beer and spirits garden to come together and socialize in before the shows.
Tickets for both nights are totally free, just be sure to reserve a spot so you don't miss out!
VIMF also offers the Creative Futures Scholarship programme. For those interested, the application deadline has been extended to the end of November. Learn more via the MyVIMF website.
VIMF 2026 — the GTA’s free, hyper-connected summer music festival
- When: July 17 and 18
- Where: Vaughan Metropolitan Centre at Assembly Park, 80 Interchange Way
- Tickets: RSVP now open — reserve your spot here
VIMF
