The 38th annual East Coast Music Awards will be Cape Breton bound in 2026.
At a gala event in St. John’s, N.L., as part of the 37th edition of the ECMAs, an announcement was made that Sydney would serve as the host community of next year’s annual music event celebrating East Coast music talent.
Cape Breton Regional Municipality Cecil Clarke, attending Thursday’s ceremony, said the pressure was on for Sydney to top the festivities held last week in the Newfoundland and Labrador capital.
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“Cape Bretoners love to step dance, but you’ve stepped it up here in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, and you’ve stomped, stomped, stomped this one for a classic,” said Cape Breton Regional Municipality Mayor Cecil Clarke, acknowledging both the city and its mayor, Danny Breen.
“But what an incredible celebration of East Coast talent. We can’t wait to welcome each and every one you to Sydney, where music is truly at the heart of who we are. From main stages to ceilidhs to kitchen parties, Cape Breton lives and breathes live music.”
During that same Thursday ceremony, Whycocomagh singer-songwriter Brett Matthews collected his first ECMA trophy for country release of the year with If I Die Today (feat. Classified).
As well, as previously reported in the Cape Breton Post, Riverview High School music teacher Monica McNeil was honoured with a Stompin’ Tom Award, in recognition of one individual in each of ECMA’s five geographical regions who has made a long-term contribution to the East Coast music industry and has paved the road for many successful East Coast artists of today.
The 2026 ECMAs are slated to take place next May 13-17, marking Sydney’s seventh time hosting the East Coast Music Association’s awards ceremony, music festival and conference — and the first notable in-person showcase in nine years.
Sydney previously held the ECMAs in 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010 and 2016, along with one virtual festival in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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