NXNE 2026

North by Northeast (NXNE) is a music showcase festival held annually in Toronto since 1995 (minus a COVID hiatus, of course). It is modeled on Austin's SXSW, which is also a minority owner of the festival. Much like SXSW, the focus is on emerging artists, some of whom become household names within a couple of years of appearing there, and takes place across a number of the host city's venues. The showcase setting means lots of relatively short performances and exposure rather than money being the motivating factor for the artists (though they do receive a nominal fee). Being in Canada, there is also a focus on Canadian artists, though there are performers from all over the world. NXNE distinguishes itself in being an incredible bargain, with a festival pass priced at just 49CAD + taxes & fees. It is also unique in that it does not charge an application fee to artists who would like to perform there.