From Festival Highlights to African Rhythms: A Vibrant Evening at the Quebec Summer Festival

The 56th edition of the Festival d’été de Québec (FEQ) has been in full swing since last Thursday, with the Plaines d’Abraham having already welcomed artists like Nickleback, 50 Cent, Jonas Brothers, and The Offspring, setting the stage for a lineup that promises to thrill rock enthusiasts. The festival grounds have been a sea of music fans gathered to celebrate their favorite rock stars in the heart of Quebec City.

One of the first stops is the revamped Place d’Youville. The festival has chosen to utilize this space again, now transformed into a beer garden with picnic tables and some shade, creating a charming backdrop with the Palais Montcalm and Le Diamant in view. The programming on this stage leans towards local artists, attracting a mix of festival-goers looking for a more intimate experience.

At 6 p.m., singer-songwriter San James took the stage, captivating the audience with her melancholic pop tunes perfect for a sunny early evening. As the crowd gathered in the shady spots, San James serenaded them with songs from her recent album, ‘Épilogue’.

Heading over to the Place de l’Assemblée-Nationale stage, festival-goers were treated to vibrant African rhythms from Kin’Gongolo Kiniata and the mesmerizing sounds of Vieux Farka Touré, son of the legendary Ali Farka Touré. The Congolese group brought lively trance rhythms that had people dancing effortlessly, while Vieux Farka Touré showcased his musical finesse and inherited blues talent.

Meanwhile, on the main stage, Rise Against pumped up the already heated atmosphere, prepping the crowd for The Offspring’s set. The audience, filled with energy, sang along to the band’s classic hits, transporting everyone back to the pop-punk era that defined a generation.

The night culminated in a memorable performance by The Offspring, with Dexter Holland’s ever-youthful voice and Noodles’ contagious energy creating an unforgettable experience for the crowd. The Plaines d’Abraham trembled under the weight of rock music, solidifying another legendary show in the books of the FEQ.