“Music brings people together. So my function in anything I do is to help bring people closer in.” - Gord Downie


Welcome to the 9th Annual GEDfest: Celebrating the life and legacy of Gordon Edgar Downie and the music of the Tragically Hip, taking place October 17th, 2026.

This fundraising event is Canada's largest annual fundraiser in memory of Gordon Edgar Downie. We have set an ambitious fundraising goal this year at $425,000 and aim to make a huge impact for all Albertans facing cancer!

GEDfest’s mission is to honour Gord Downie’s life and legacy and the music of the Tragically Hip while giving back to the community through the power of live music and charity. We are uniquely positioned to empower and unite around a common purpose, and ensure no Albertan facing cancer walks alone. We’re entrepreneurial, collaborative and innovative – determined to create more moments for more Albertans with cancer. Every day over 60 Albertans will hear the words, “you have cancer”. 1 in 2 Albertans will receive a diagnosis in their lifetime. Thank you for your consideration in joining us, and supporting our collective vision of a cancer-free future.

Please help us honour Gord Downie, who the world lost to glioblastoma, and raise awareness and funds for cancer research. At the root of everything he did, Gord Downie embodied courage. We honour Gord by revisiting his powerful words that continue to lend courage to those who need it most.
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