There is a very specific type of magic that happens when you mix blazing late-August heat, an open highway, and the heavy chug of an acoustic rhythm guitar. If you are a country music fan looking for the ultimate way to wrap up your summer, pack your boots and point your truck toward Saint-Agapit, Quebec.
Running from August 27 to 29, 2026, Festival Country Lotbinière (FCL) is returning for its annual three-day weekend of powerhouse performances, heavy-duty camping, and unparalleled small-town festival vibes. Located just 30 minutes outside of Québec City, it has quietly earned its reputation as the province’s crown jewel for modern, new-country music.
Here is a breakdown of why FCL needs to be at the very top of your summer festival calendar
The Lineup: Nashville Star Power Meets Local Fire
FCL has carved out a massive niche by bringing top-tier international Billboard-charters to Quebec while keeping its roots firmly planted in the Canadian and local country scenes. Spanning two high-tech stages, this year’s lineup packs an incredible punch.
Thursday, August 27: The Dark Horse Adrenaline
- The Headliner: Warren Zeiders. Known for his gritty, roaring vocals and high-octane energy, Zeiders is set to shake the Kepler GIN stage to its core.
- Don’t Miss: Chayce Beckham and Quebec’s own Laurence St-Martin, setting a massive bar for night one.
Friday, August 28: The Singalong Anthems
- The Headliner: Jordan Davis. Prepare for a massive, open-air crowd singalong to smash hits like “Buy Dirt” and “Next Thing You Know.”
- Don’t Miss: The incredibly electric Elle King and rising star Tyler Braden, making Friday a relentless gauntlet of great hooks.
Saturday, August 29: True Blue Star Power
- The Headliner: Parker McCollum. The “Gold Chain Cowboy” brings his smooth Texas-country grit and undeniable stage presence to close out the weekend.
- Don’t Miss: Canada’s own Madeline Merlo and the infectious energy of Zach John King.
More Than Just Music: The FCL Experience
What separates an ordinary festival from a truly memorable road trip is the culture built around it. FCL transforms Saint-Agapit into a full-blown country ecosystem.
The Campgrounds: Where the Party Lives
The music doesn’t stop when the main stage lights go down at 2:00 AM. FCL features massive on-site camping hubs catering to every kind of festival-goer. Whether you’re pitching a classic tent with your crew or rolling in with a massive Class-A motorhome, the campgrounds are a community of their own, filled with acoustic guitars, early-morning tailgates, and post-show debriefs.
The Saloon
Need a break between sets? Head over to The Saloon. This completely free, open-access activation hub is the heart of the festival marketplace. It is packed to the brim with curated local Quebec merchants, artisan country apparel kiosks, food trucks serving up the finest poutine in the region, and immersive brand experiences.
Festival Fast Facts & Pro-Tips
- Where is it? Saint-Agapit, QC (roughly a 3-hour drive from Montreal, and 30 minutes from Quebec City).
- Admission Perks: Kids aged 10 and under get in absolutely free when accompanied by an adult (general admission zones).
- Cashless Ground: FCL runs completely on digital payments and official festival currency—leave your paper bills in your wallet and download your digital passes beforehand!
- Upgraded Vibe: If you want a break from the barrier, look into the Mezzanine or Twisted Tea Terrace passes for elevated, covered views of the main stage.
Secure Your Spot on the Highway
Whether you are chasing the heavy-hitting anthems of modern Nashville or wanting to discover the next big voice in Canadian indie-country, Festival Country Lotbinière delivers an analog, windows-down, high-energy festival experience that is hard to find anywhere else.
Weekend passes and single-day tickets are moving fast. Grab your crew, build your ultimate highway playlist, and we will see you on the road to Saint-Agapit this August!
