After a successful inaugural edition, SOULFEST MTL returns to light up downtown Montreal with a second edition that promises to be even more vibrant and festive. From July 10 to 13, this major musical and cultural celebration will convert a part of Sainte-Catherine Street West into a lively open-air dance floor. At the foot of the iconic St. James United Church, beautifully illuminated for the occasion, audiences will be swept away by a dynamic lineup featuring renowned artists and emerging talents, all within a welcoming and spirited urban atmosphere.
“Since its creation, SOULFEST MTL has embodied the very spirit of soul music: an art that brings people together, inspires dancing, and celebrates cultural diversity within a festive and welcoming atmosphere. In 2025, the festival renews this commitment by creating a vibrant space for connection and unity,” says Sylvie Desgroseilliers, artist in residence at Le Balcon cabaret.
Four Days of Vibrant City Energy
Over four days, the festival will highlight the diversity of soul, motown, funk, disco, R&B, and gospel music, all celebrated in a spirit of exchange and intergenerational sharing. This musical celebration will come alive along the pedestrian stretch of Sainte-Catherine Street West, between Saint-Alexandre and Aylmer streets, transformed for the occasion into a festive and inclusive gathering place. A wide variety of free activities designed for all audiences will be offered, alongside gourmet zones where flavors and discoveries await.
Free concerts in front of St. James United Church
On the forecourt of St. James United Church, the public will enjoy free performances featuring Sylvie Desgroseilliers, her son Nino Flamenco, Slim Williams and his guests, Disco Queen, Rachel Jeanty, Rémi Cormier, and many other talented artists.
Meanwhile, indoor concerts held in the intimate setting of Le Balcon, the festival’s official presenter this year, will provide a close and warm connection to the artists, where the true magic of soul music unfolds.
Le Balcon Celebrates 20 Years of Musical Broadcasting
To culminate the celebration, Le Balcon cabaret will mark two decades of musical broadcasting with an exclusive event on July 12 at 11 PM, featuring the collective Voyage Funktastique. This special event honors Le Balcon’s vital contribution to the soul music scene in Montreal and its commitment to fostering cultural and generational connections.
Tickets Available Now
The full program and tickets for concerts taking place at Le Balcon are available now at www.soulfestmtl.com.
About SOULFEST MTL
SOULFEST MTL is a vibrant music and cultural festival powered by Maison PRPLSN, celebrating the full spectrum of soul music in the heart of downtown Montreal. Dedicated to developing local cultural projects with international resonance, the festival spotlights both local and global artists, forges connections across generations, communities, and music scenes, and plays an active role in shaping cultural identity while fostering the socioeconomic growth of the area.
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