In a dazzling celebration of creativity and culture, Loft Entertainment and Oak View Group (OVG) proudly unveiled the inaugural Departure Festival 2025 + Conference in the heart of downtown Toronto from May 6–11, 2025. This re-imagined evolution of Canadian Music Week welcomed global icons and rising stars across music, comedy, film, and thought leadership, setting the stage for what’s already being heralded as a cultural renaissance.
A Star-Studded Debut
Held across more than 40 vibrant venues throughout the city, Departure Festival 2025 was a symphony of talent. Legendary artists like Bryan Adams, Tegan and Sara, Dallas Green, and Shaggy lit up the stages, while cultural changemakers such as Mustafa, Jully Black, and Tia Wood brought deeply resonant performances to captivated audiences.
Comedy took center stage with powerhouse acts including Elvira Kurt, Jamie Kennedy, Caroline Rhea, and the beloved hosts of How Did This Get Made? – Live. Canadian culinary legend Matty Matheson and celebrated filmmaker Harland Williams also brought their unique flair, bridging the worlds of film, food, and laughter.
“Departure continues to establish itself as a must-attend event for artists, industry leaders, and fans alike,” said Kevin Barton, Executive Producer at Loft Entertainment. “From cutting-edge performances to meaningful conversations, this year’s festival was a love letter to the future of music, culture, and creativity.”
Trailblazing Conference Programming
The Departure Conference proved to be just as impactful, drawing industry leaders, innovators, and activists from across North America. Highlights included a keynote by Tegan and Sara, insights from Max Kerman (frontman of Arkells, debuting his book Try Hard), and sessions led by genre-defying pop artist Fefe Dobson.
From music production legend Murda Beatz to mental health advocate Catherine Harrison, speakers covered themes spanning talent management, indigenous rights, media ethics, and cultural sustainability. Visionaries like Dalton Higgins, Autumn Peltier, Nam Kiwanuka, and artist Julia Brevetti brought depth and dimension to every discussion.
Festival Vibes: Music & Comedy
The music lineup was a masterclass in diversity and energy. With performances by Noah Derksen (Canadian Folk Music’s Emerging Artist of the Year), Chapter & Verse, rising hip-hop star DijahSB, and DJ Felix Cartal, Toronto came alive. The grand finale was an electric closing performance by Quavo and Murda Beatz, leaving fans energized and inspired.
On the comedy front, the city laughed out loud with standout sets at Comedy Bar and The Royal Theatre, featuring a blend of beloved names and new voices. Elvira Kurt brought her signature wit, while Jamie Kennedy and Harland Williams offered back-to-back shows that became instant festival highlights.
Hotel X: The Heart of Departure
Serving as the central headquarters, Hotel X Toronto hosted conference events and film screenings, offering a sleek and modern backdrop for intellectual exchange and creative networking. From panels to parties, Hotel X pulsed with the energy of innovation.
About the Visionaries
Loft Entertainment
Founded by industry titan Randy Lennox in 2023, Loft Entertainment champions storytellers and cultural architects. From strategy to execution, Loft bridges art and commerce to elevate creators across music, media, and film. Visit loftent.com.
Oak View Group (OVG)
As a global force in live event experience and venue innovation, Oak View Group sets the gold standard in entertainment. With venues and projects spanning four continents, OVG continues to redefine what it means to gather, celebrate, and create. Learn more at oakviewgroup.com.
Social Media
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© 2025 Photos by A.J. Lam; © 2025 Photos,Article & Layout TorontoArtsandEvents. Article AI Assisted. All rights reserved Reference: Official Press Release.
