For 20 years, M for Montreal has been one of Canada’s most influential music festivals and industry conferences, transforming the city into a global hub for discovery each November. Known for its sharp curation and intimate showcases, the festival has helped launch the international careers of countless Montreal artists—from Arcade Fire and Patrick Watson to Grimes and Mac DeMarco—while drawing industry delegates from around the world to connect, collaborate, and scout the next wave of talent. Beyond its showcases, M for Montreal has become a vital meeting place where booking agents, festival programmers, managers, and artists converge to keep the music ecosystem thriving. Its anniversary edition is both a celebration of this legacy and a glimpse into the future of where Montreal’s music scene is heading next.

Headlining this milestone year is Toronto’s BADBADNOTGOOD, who are also celebrating their own 20th anniversary. Their return to the city marks a full-circle moment since their first M for Montreal appearance in 2014, with Colin Stetson opening. The Besnard Lakes will debut their new album Ghost Nation at Sala Rossa, and Digable Planets will perform their seminal Blowout Comb in full.

Rounding out the bill are more than 80 acts including Afternoon Bike Ride, Original Gros Bonnet, Chiara Savasta, ROWJAY, and international standouts like Gruff Rhys—plus curated stage takeovers from Mothland, 444, Paper Bag Records, Rough Trade Publishing, and even RANGE Magazine.

With launches, reunions, and once-in-a-lifetime collaborations on deck, M for Montreal’s 20th edition is primed to keep Montreal’s music scene buzzing while welcoming the world to join in the celebration. For tickets and more information, check out mpourmontreal.com