Free applications to play NXNE opened on OCTOBER 7, 2024. The application deadline is DECEMBER 31, 2024. Head to 2025 Festival > Artist Application

Every band gets a 40 minute showcase set - no exceptions. We run a very tight schedule which is part of NXNE’s signature format since 1995 - it’s better for the bands, fans, and the industry.

If our schedule says you’re on at 10 pm, then that’s what they expect. If you’re late they just might leave and see somebody else who’s on time. Opportunity lost. We won’t let that happen. 

At most venues, the first band is 8 pm ET, last band starts 1 am with some Last Call, extended hours exceptions for the hard core. Every show starts on the hour – and did we mention, 40 minute sets?! Same thing, timely shows run like clockwork encourages reliable club hopping. There’s a new band every hour on the hour – hope springs eternal!

Sorry but, no sound checks. It would simply be impossible to accommodate all bands sound checks. BUT, if you get to your gig in plenty of time our awesome sound persons will help you set your levels in record time so subtly the audience won’t even notice.. But no formal sound checks.

Yes, you do! It’s not a lot, but you’ll have bigger paydays in the future if it works out. But everyone gets paid.

As always, NXNE pays bands a minimum honorarium of $100 for groups and solo performers receive a minimum $50. You will be asked to confirm the email address where payment will be made.

In addition, all members will be given an NXNE Full Festival Pass, an Artist’s Welcome Bag, and exclusive invitations to special events. We are committed to elevating the artists’ experiences at our festival.

No equipment is provided by NXNE other than the basic backline (2 guitar amps, 1 bass amp, 1 drum kit - bring your own breakables)

Please only bring what you will need as there is limited storage space.

Unfortunately, there is no additional guest list for official NXNE artist showcases, however, you are allowed to bring in your manager. You will need to let us know during registration so we can issue a pass for them .

You are also welcome to bring in one photographer/videographer to shoot your showcase but they would only have access to the venue where you’re performing they will be provided with a single-admission ticket to gain access.

Otherwise, photographers are invited to apply on the website for full media accreditation.

NXNE promotes artists and musicians in numerous ways. We will announce our lineup on social media, newsletters, and other forms of media coverage. As well as putting them on our website and schedule for attendees to see where their favourite artists or potentially new favourite artist will be performing!

Additionally, self-promotion is strongly encouraged.

NXNE has not, does not, and will not disclose a participant’s immigration status, except when required by law.

A valid passport from your country of residence is required at Canada’s borders. 

Print out the Official NXNE Offer Letter and carry it with you during travel, and provide it to Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) if you are asked about your purpose for traveling.


Depending on your country of origin, you may need to acquire a visa to enter Canada. You may check this Government of Canada website to determine your visa requirements/eligibility.

According to R186(g), artists and musicians coming to perform in Canada in a time-limited engagement are exempt from a work permit.

Unless artists intend to stay and perform longer than 2 weeks in Canada, a work permit is required, otherwise you do not need a work permit to perform in Canada.

NXNE Music Festival: The NXNE music festival that takes place in Toronto, Canada between June 12-16, 2024.

Artist showcase: The official NXNE live music performance opportunities given to selected NXNE artists, typically between the hours of 8PM and 1AM ET.

Offer letter: The document that is sent to you when you have been chosen to perform at NXNE. This signed document is a requirement to confirm your band is attending and performing at the festival.

CBSA: Canadian Border Services Agency, the government agency responsible for border control, immigration enforcement, and customs services within Canada.