Something fresh is rising out of Toronto’s West End—and it’s got soul, grit, and an independent spirit. Say hello to Second Summer, a brand new music festival dreamed up by music people for music people. No algorithms. No hype cycles. Just incredible artists doing what they do best.
The official festival lands in September 2026, but before that, they’re kicking things off with a pair of launch events that are already shaping up to be can’t-miss nights.
Who’s Behind It?
Second Summer is the brainchild of industry vets Brendan McCarney and Claire Rosenbaum—two folks who’ve spent their careers in the trenches, on the road, and behind the scenes. Brendan started out tour managing before launching Double Denim Artist Management in 2014. He’s worn multiple hats—booking agent, label manager—and is currently at the helm of Paper Bag Records. Claire also came up through the tour circuit, later working with Last Gang Records, PHI Music, and now Eggplant Entertainment, where she manages a diverse lineup of artists.
Both know exactly what artists need and how to build something authentic—something that feels like home. Second Summer is their answer to the overly-curated, trend-chasing world we’ve found ourselves in. It’s a celebration of community, discovery, and music that moves you.
The Launch Parties
Before the full festival arrives in 2026, Second Summer is throwing two preview parties this September—and they’re stacked.
Toronto Launch – September 24 @ Lee’s Palace
This one’s big. British post-punk heavyweights Dry Cleaning are headlining, playing one of only a few shows they’ll do all year. They’ll be joined by:
- Bria Salmena – shadowy, cinematic vibes from one of Toronto’s most unique voices
- JayWood – a boundary-pushing blend of alt hip-hop and neo-soul from Montreal
- Slash Need – high-energy, full-volume Toronto punk
- Plus a pre-show industry mixer featuring a DJ set from the ever-charming Born Ruffians
Tickets for the Toronto show go on sale July 9 at 10 AM ET.
Montreal Launch – September 25 @ La Sotterenea (in partnership with POP Montreal)
The Montreal party is just as wild, bringing together:
- PISS – Vancouver’s warped version of ‘easy listening’
- Rachel Bobbitt – delicate, introspective indie rock straight from Toronto
- JayWood – yes, again, because why not?
- Fold Paper – angular, chaotic post-punk from Winnipeg
Looking Ahead
These two nights are just a taste. Come September 2026, Second Summer plans to take over Toronto’s West End with a full-on music blowout: a thoughtfully curated lineup of incredible artists, plus a boutique conference with international guests, deep convos, and plenty of inspiration.
So yeah—this one’s not about the scroll. It’s not about the stream. It’s about the spark. It’s about something real. Second Summer is on the way, and it’s exactly what the scene’s been waiting for.
Stay tuned. Stay independent. See you in the West End.
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