BreakOut West: Conquering the Vastness of Western Canada

Canada’s sheer size can be challenging to grasp, and while the country hosts numerous showcase festivals, they mostly unfold in the east. BreakOut West, the predominant festival in Western Canada for the past two decades, lives up to its name by traveling to different locations each year, supporting local music industries. This year, the festival set its stage in Calgary, Alberta, offering a unique experience with every edition.

Considered a pleasant midsize festival, BreakOut West draws participants from the local and national music industry, along with a carefully selected group of international professionals. The festival’s hub in Calgary was the Marriott Hotel, dedicating an entire floor to various rooms for meetups, lectures, and receptions. The cozy yet spacious lobby downstairs served as a versatile space for connecting with people and hosting smaller concert performances.

An interesting aspect of the festival was its use of two different areas for bars and clubs. On the first day, BreakOut West utilized a club area a few blocks from the hotel, offering shuttles for easy access. The following days, all venues were within walking distance, making it convenient to catch several artists in a short time.

Midsize festivals strike a balance, accommodating those eager to break into the music industry and providing seasoned professionals ample opportunities for meaningful connections. BreakOut West excels in this regard, with friendly staff and organizers assisting in connecting with the right people.

The festival’s lineup predominantly features Canadian acts, serving as a platform for artists from western provinces and facilitating exchanges with their eastern counterparts. In addition to showcasing Canadian talent, BreakOut West incorporated special exchange programs with Wales and Nordic countries, introducing European bands to the mix.

BreakOut West proves instrumental for anyone seeking entry into the Western Canada market or aiming to cultivate an international network in a welcoming environment. Explore more: BreakOut West