POP Montreal Festival Is Still Happening This Year So We Can Finally Hear Live Music Again

It seems like so much of 2020 is just so unpredictable. But the one thing that we know for certain is that festival season has not been what we're used to. That said, while some festivals have had to forego their runs this year, many have decided to change formats, like the annual POP Montreal Festival.

According to the festival's page, "POP Montreal International Music Festival is an annual not-for-profit curated cultural event that champions independence in the arts by presenting emerging and celebrated artistic talents from around the world."

POP started back in 2002 out of an idea between friends and colleagues for celebrating the rich and vibrant cultural music scene here in one of Canada's trendiest city's.

Since then, it has grown to be one of the most POPular events of the year, attended by 60,000 guests and 400 artists.

Usually part of Montreal's famous festival circuit is one of the most lively and head-bopping events of the season.

This year, which happens to be the festival's 19th run, will be a blend of online and in-person content in what the team is calling a "hybrid event."

Artists joining this year's lineup showcase a range of genres and styles include metalhead rapper Backxwash, jazz musicians Plants & Animals, French folk-rock artist Antoine Corriveau, and many more. 

Adding to this year's festivities will be creations from Film POP, Art POP, POP Symposium and Puces POP — taking the hybrid festival even further.

As for the health and safety of attendees and artists, the festival will allow 25% of audience capacity into each venue and will be enabling social distancing and safety measures.

"We are doing everything in our power to keep our artists, staff and community safe. Full safety guidelines will be found in our digital program."

Because there are limited seats, people are encouraged to purchase tickets online beforehand, which can be found on POP Montreal's website.