For the ninth year in a row, Area 506 was a sensational hit, drawing audiences from all over the maritimes. Filled with Canadian favourites like Toronto / the Maritimes' very own Alvvays, the talented Our Lady Peace, and the electrifying The Beaches, who stood in for Sum 41 after they reluctantly had to cancel their shows.
The hit festival took place over the August long weekend, 2nd - 4th 2024 in the Waterfront Village of Saint John, New Brunswick and featured over nineteen different artists, a Canadian star-studded roster. Filled with up-and-comers and Canadian music legends alike.
Location, location, location
The Waterfront Village offered the ideal setting for Area 506. With the historic harbour and the sound of music filling the air, the vibe was immaculate. People roamed the area but many were glued to the stage, others grabbed eats from food trucks, and picked up merch. The Saint John waterfront felt alive with energy, sunshine, local enthusiasts, and music lovers everywhere. It’s the kind of festival atmosphere you dream of.
Standout Performances
The indie dream-pop band, Alvvays finally returned to the Maritimes for the first time since 2018 and the Maritimes couldn’t be more thrilled. Starring Cape Breton’s Molly Rankin, Kerri MacLellan, PEI’s Alec O'Hanley and Long Beach, California’s Sheridan Riley, locals are sure to be thrilled when they hear Alvvays is playing on home turf. An act you surely don’t want to miss if you ever have the opportunity.
Our Lady Peace was another standout. Delivering fans with the hits they’ve loved for years, mixed with some newer tracks. Raine Maida had the crowd encapsulated, delivering powerful vocals and an incredible atmosphere.
When The Beaches stepped in for Sum 41, they took control of the crowd. Their punchy, punky rock sound, enigmatic energy and crowd surfing had everyone moving, turning a potential drawback into one of the weekend’s best surprises.
Support Local
Area 506 is about the community just as much as the music. The festival brought a herd of visitors to Saint John, supporting local businesses and helping shine a spotlight on the city’s music scene. Vendors, local restaurants, and hotels all felt the impact, making it a win for everyone involved. There’s no doubt that Area 506 has become a must in the Maritimes, and it’s helping put Saint John on the map as a city with culture.
Looking Ahead
Area 506 keeps getting bigger, and with every year, the anticipation grows. If this year is anything to go by, 2025 is going to be something special. I can't wait to see who's playing next year and I can't wait to be back.
Don’t "Wintersleep" on next year's rendition, it’s sure to be sensational.
FULL LINEUP
Alvvays / Wintersleep/ Aysanabee / Motherhood / LOVEOVER.
Our Lady Peace/ Tokyo Police / Club Colony House / Devon Cole / Dee Hernandez / Ermine / The Hello Crows.
Sum 41 (replaced by The Beaches) / PUP / Monowhales / The Hypochondriacs / Before the Dinosaurs / Doctor Mother Father / a performance by students from the InterAction School of Performing Arts.
