Sounds of the Waterfront: Free Live Music at Founders’ Food Hall & Market

Grab a seat because Charlottetown’s waterfront just turned into a stage

Sounds of the Waterfront is back for another music-filled summer, bringing free live music to Charlottetown at Founders’ Food Hall & Market and Peake’s Quay every single day. Throughout the season, talented PEI artists fill the waterfront with live performances, creating one of the city’s most enjoyable summer experiences.

Whether you’re planning a family outing, meeting friends for lunch, or simply looking for free things to do in Charlottetown, this daily concert series is the perfect excuse to spend the day at Founders’ Food Hall & Market.

Two young dancers perform on the Sounds of the Waterfront stage at Founders' Food Hall & Market during a free live music and entertainment event in Charlottetown, PEI.

What It’s All About

Sounds of the Waterfront showcases talented PEI musicians while giving both locals and visitors the chance to enjoy free live entertainment throughout the summer. Every performer brings something unique to Charlottetown’s vibrant waterfront.

The series is made possible through the generous support of Dairy Farmers of PEI, whose sponsorship helps celebrate local music, support Island artists, and keep this much-loved summer tradition accessible to everyone.

When and Where to Catch It

Live performances take place twice a day at two of Charlottetown’s favorite waterfront destinations.

Founders’ Food Hall & Market Patio

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Peake’s Quay Courtyard

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Both Locations

5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

On sunny days, enjoy live performances outdoors with beautiful views of the Charlottetown harbour. Sit back, relax, and take in the vibrant atmosphere as local musicians provide the soundtrack to your waterfront afternoon.

If the weather doesn’t cooperate, don’t worry. Performances simply move upstairs inside Founders’ Food Hall & Market, where you can stay comfortable while enjoying great acoustics, delicious local food, and the same incredible entertainment.

Best of all, every performance is completely free. Simply grab a seat on the patio or inside the market, settle in, and enjoy the music.

A solo musician performs live at the Sounds of the Waterfront stage outside Founders' Food Hall & Market, with guests relaxing in red Adirondack chairs around a fire pit on a sunny day.

Make a Whole Afternoon of It

Live music is even better when paired with great food.

Founders’ Food Hall & Market brings together a diverse collection of independent food vendors serving everything from fresh local seafood and handcrafted sandwiches to international cuisine, sweet treats, coffee, and refreshing beverages. It’s the perfect place to enjoy lunch, dinner, or a snack between performances.

After your meal, browse the market’s local retailers, discover handcrafted products from Island makers, or simply relax with a drink before the next performance begins. Whether you’re visiting on your own, planning a date, entertaining cruise guests, or spending the day with family, Founders offers a welcoming space to slow down and experience everything the Charlottetown waterfront has to offer.

Exterior of the historic red-brick Founders' Food Hall & Market building in Charlottetown, PEI, with white script signage and mint-green arched windows against a blue sky.

One of the Best Free Things to Do in Charlottetown This Summer

Looking for free summer events in PEI or wondering about things to do in Charlottetown? Sounds of the Waterfront is one of the city’s most popular daily attractions, combining live local music, waterfront views, outstanding food, and a welcoming community atmosphere in one convenient destination.

It’s an experience that captures the very best of summer on Prince Edward Island while supporting local musicians, local businesses, and the vibrant culture that makes Charlottetown so special.

A couple relaxes in red Adirondack chairs with drinks and their dog while a musician performs on the Sounds of the Waterfront stage, sponsored by Dairy Farmers of PEI.

Come Hear What PEI Sounds Like

Sounds of the Waterfront runs every day throughout the summer, rain or shine.

Stop by Founders’ Food Hall & Market or Peake’s Quay, enjoy a delicious meal, discover talented local musicians, and experience one of the best free live music events in Charlottetown.

Be sure to follow Founders’ Food Hall & Market on social media for performer schedules, special announcements, and updates throughout the season.

A huge thank you to our sponsors who make Sounds of the Waterfront possible: Dairy Farmers of Prince Edward Island, TD Commercial Bank, Stewart McKelvey, Downtown Charlottetown, the City of Charlottetown, Tourism PEI, and CADC.