Lorde, The Weeknd, Major Lazer rock Osheaga 2017

By Marriska Fernandes on August 11, 2017 | Leave a Comment

The 12th edition of the Osheaga Music and Arts Festival was a success, drawing over 135,000 music lovers. Despite the rain, attendees brought their infectious energy and enjoyed the three-day festival that took place from August 4 to 6.

While a few artists cancelled due to severe weather conditions, first-day headliner Lorde not only gave a memorable performance, but embraced the rain. Despite strong winds and showers, the New Zealand artist danced and sang for an entire hour on the Virgin Mobile River Stage, compelling the crowd to sing along in the rain.

She spoke about heartbreak and crushes, making the crowd love her even more. She even did an incredible interpretation of a song by Montreal’s Martha Wainwright, and a duet with Tove Lo on Homemade Dynamite.

On the second night, Major Lazer put on an electrifying show as thousands of fans danced to the mix of EDM and pop music. Diplo and DJs Jillionaire and Walshy Fire sure knew how to work the crowd, despite the pouring rain.

Headlining Saturday night was Muse, who shared their electrifying energy with thousands of enthusiastic fans. The British group rocked to their top melodies and made the night a memorable one.

Closing the festival on Sunday night was Canadian artist The Weeknd, who had the crowd going wild as he performed Can’t Feel My Face, Starboy and I Feel It Coming among others. His performance drew thousands of fans, many of whom waited for hours in front of the Virgin Mobile River Stage to get a close-up view of the singer.

Other noteworthy performers who had music lovers camping on the grounds for hours included Vance Joy, who sang crowd favorite Riptide, and Jon Bellion, who rocked the stage with his hit singles. Fans cheered for Zara Larsson, who showed off her dance moves and sang several of her hit songs, including Ain’t My Fault, Never Forget You and Symphony. Watch out for our interview with Zara as she dishes on music inspirations, Ed Sheeran and more.

Hip-hop artists Run the Jewels and Tory Lanez had the fans chanting along as they rapped to their top singles. Foster the People and Alabama Shakes also gave fans their money’s worth.

Overall, the Osheaga Music and Arts Festival 2017 was a success. With 115 artists and incredible headliners, it was a well-organized event that created a memorable experience for fans. The Virgin Mobile Members Lounge, which was open to media as well, was a welcome break to get away from the crowds, and also offered a V.I.P. view of the River Stage.

Check out photos from the festival below! Images courtesy Vanessa Fernandes and Pat Beaudry. ~Marriska Fernandes