Ottawa Bluesfest 2025 [Day 7]

Friday was undeniably one of the biggest nights at Ottawa Bluesfest 2025.
The spotlight was firmly on Green Day, who packed the main stage with a crowd eager for nostalgia and punk energy.
They opened with a politically charged version of “American Idiot,” swapping in the lyric “I’m not a part of a MAGA agenda”—a bold statement right out the gate. That energy carried into “Holiday,” with Billie Joe Armstrong shouting “The representative of Canada now has the floor,” earning a roar from the crowd.

The band tore through their massive catalogue of hits, including “Boulevard of Broken Dreams,” “Longview,” “Brain Stew” (a personal favourite), “Basket Case,” “When I Come Around,” and many more. Unfortunately, I missed the finale, “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life),” but the set was still unforgettable.

Opening for Green Day was The Linda Lindas, who brought a fierce and youthful energy with their blend of pop punk and punk rock.
They’re definitely inspiring a new generation to grab a guitar and start a band.

Les Shirley kicked off the night with a loud and hard-hitting set that got the crowd amped up right from the start.


Over at the LeBreton Stage, Fantastic Negrito thrilled the audience with his charismatic blend of R&B and blues, making a bold impression both musically and stylistically.
Ron Sexsmith followed with a heartfelt and emotional performance, showcasing his strengths as a singer-songwriter with tender folk-pop tunes.

The River Stage lineup included local act Four Eyed Muscle Man, the globally groovy Los Bitchos, and the always fun Dwayne Gretzky, keeping the vibes high across festival grounds.

Overall, it was a massive night at Bluesfest—one for the books.
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Ottawa Bluesfest 2025 [Day 7]

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