Who is being honored at the 2026 Departure Festival?

Sarah McLachlan, Rupi Kaur, Maggie Kang, and Jacob Tierney are among those being honored at the 2026 Departure Festival.

When is the Departure Festival + Conference in 2026?

The Departure Festival + Conference is scheduled to take place in Toronto from May 4-10, 2026.

What awards will be given at the Departure Festival?

Awards include the Allan Slaight Humanitarian Award, Cultural Innovator Award, Creative Impact Award, and Independent Achievement Award.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Canadian Icons Honored at 2026 Departure Fest

Canadian Icons Honored at 2026 Departure Fest

21 Jan

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Summary

Sarah McLachlan and Rupi Kaur will be honored in May 2026.
Departure Festival celebrates Canadian media and entertainment talent.
The event takes place in Toronto from May 4-10, 2026.

Canadian Icons Honored at 2026 Departure Fest

In May 2026, Toronto will host the second annual Departure Festival + Conference, a significant event celebrating Canadian talent in media and entertainment. The festival, running from May 4-10, will honor several influential figures.

Singer-songwriter Sarah McLachlan and poet Rupi Kaur are among the distinguished recipients. McLachlan will receive the Allan Slaight Humanitarian Award, while Kaur is set to be recognized with the Independent Achievement Award.

KPop Demon Hunters creator Maggie Kang will receive the Cultural Innovator Award, and Heated Rivalry director Jacob Tierney will accept the Creative Impact Award. Other honorees include comedian Russell Peters and songwriter Jenna Andrews.