Departure (formerly Canadian Music Week)

Date(s): May 6 to 11, 2025
Location: Throughout Toronto

Departure is a reimagination of Canadian Music Week, and it's more than a music festival. For the past 42 years, Canadian Music Week has been recognized as a groundbreaking space where emerging and headlining artists, along with industry professionals, from Canada and around the world come together to inspire, support, and share with one another. Previous performers have included Post Malone, Our Lady Peace, The 1975, Katy Perry, Janet Jackson and more.

Departure's reimagining positions the festival and conference for a more diverse future in entertainment. The festival expands to six days and introduces comedy performances, a songwriter showcase, and a culinary experience filled with food trucks and outdoor activities.

Departure Highlights

Things to see and do at Departure include:

Guest speakers such as Matty Matheson, Bryan Adams, and more
Emerging Artists Showcase, Songwriters Showcase, and comedy stand-up showcases
Live performances including Rock, Hip Hop, R&B, Pop, Alternative, and Indie concerts
Panels
Keynotes
Workshops
Networking events & happy hours
Food trucks
See the full conference lineup and the music festival lineup (full schedules to be released in March)