Ontario Agritourism

Concerts on the Canal returning to Merritt Park

This year’s concert season gets underway on June 5

Free live music returns to Merritt Park this summer as the City of Welland launches its award‑winning Concerts on the Canal series. Running from June to September, the popular outdoor concert series will feature six evenings of live music, set against the scenic backdrop of Welland’s recreational canal.

Presented in partnership with Giant FM and New Country 89.1, Concerts on the Canal continues to be a signature summer event in Welland. The series offers music fans a wide range of genres, including folk, funk, Motown, rock, reggae, and blues, with each concert headlined by a different act throughout the season. Among this year’s headlining performers is Spencer MacKenzie, a Maple Blues Award winner and 2023 Juno Award nominee for Blues Album of the Year.

Held at the Merritt Park Amphitheatre along Welland’s recreational canal, Concerts on the Canal is a free outdoor concert series that brings the community together in a lively, open-air setting. With its unique floating stage and scenic waterfront backdrop, the series continues to offer a memorable experience for audiences of all ages. New additions for 2026 include a kid’s fun zone and a photo backdrop, giving families and fans even more ways to enjoy the evening.

“The Concerts on the Canal series is a great example of how accessible community events contribute to quality of life in Welland,” said Jennifer McPetrie, director of community services. “By bringing people together through live music in a welcoming outdoor space, these events support our livability goals and help foster a strong sense of belonging and community pride.”

Recognized by Festivals and Events Ontario as one of the Top 100 Festivals and Events in Ontario for the past two consecutive years, Concerts on the Canal continues to build on its success by attracting residents and visitors to gather, connect, and enjoy live music in the heart of the city.

2026 Concert lineup:

  • June 5 – Opener: The Mandevilles; Special guest: Phil Davis; Headliner: LMT Connection
  • July 1 – Opener: Charissa, Revolver & Friends; Headliner: Vinyl Flux
  • July 17 – Opener: Road Waves; Headliner: Reggeaddiction
  • July 31 – Opener: Soul Jam; Headliner: Spencer MacKenzie
  • August 21 – Opener: Gravely; Headliner: Acrobat (U2 Tribute)
  • September 4 – Opener: Neo Young; Headliner: Epic Eagles

Concert gates open at 6 p.m., with music from 7 to 9:30 p.m. for all dates except July 1, when performances begin at 6 p.m.

In addition to providing free entertainment, Concerts on the Canal supports Welland’s downtown core by attracting visitors and encouraging them to explore local restaurants, retailers, and businesses. The series creates opportunities for residents and visitors to gather, connect, and enjoy shared experiences in the heart of the city.

Limited on-site parking is available at Merritt Park, with free nearby parking at the Welland Farmers Market, 70 Young Street.

Residents looking for a unique and engaging way to enjoy summer evenings are encouraged to attend and experience the energy and atmosphere of live music along the canal.

For full event details, including performer information and updates throughout the season, visit: https://www.welland.ca/Events/eventsinfo/concertsOnTheCanal.asp.

By PelhamToday Staff