Cabane Fever

Cabane Fever, a high-energy celebration of traditional folk music, song, and dance, is taking over The Mack in downtown Charlottetown on February 21 at 7:30 pm.

The evening brings together artists in Acadian, Celtic, and Québécois traditions, led by internationally acclaimed Acadian group Vishtèn, PEI’s dynamic new folk collective Maukin, and featuring a late-night square-dance blowout with Quebec favourites Jean-François Berthiaume and Louis-Simon Lemieux.

For more than 20 years, Vishtèn has been a driving force in Acadian music, earning international recognition for their electrifying blend of traditional French songs, powerful instrumentals, and contemporary energy. With performances across North America, Europe, and Australia, a JUNO Award nomination, and multiple ECMA and Music PEI Awards, the group continues to evolve while remaining deeply rooted in Acadian culture. 

Also appearing is Maukin, one of PEI’s most exciting new folk projects. Drawing from Irish, Scottish, and Acadian traditions, the group blends rich melodies, pipes, whistles, fiddle, guitar, and bodhrán into bold, genre-defying arrangements. Featuring musicians formerly known for their acclaimed work with Ten Strings and a Goat Skin, Maukin pushes Atlantic Canada’s folk traditions forward while staying firmly grounded in the musical heritage of the Island.

The night culminates in a joyful, high-octane square dance experience led by Jean-François Berthiaume, one of Quebec’s most in-demand callers, percussionists, and step dancers. With more than two decades dedicated to researching, performing, and living Quebec’s folk traditions, Berthiaume is renowned for his infectious energy and ability to bring dance floors to life. He is joined by Louis-Simon Lemieux, a multi-instrumentalist and fiddler known for his passion, virtuosity, driving rhythms, and deep knowledge of Quebec, Irish, and Scottish repertoires.

Cabane Fever is presented in partnership with Confederation Centre of the Arts, the Fédération culturelle de l’Île-du-Prince-Édouard, Festival Route 11, and the Carrefour de l’Isle-Saint-Jean, celebrating living folk traditions and the communal joy of music and dance.

The event is family-friendly and open to all ages, with bar service available. Tickets are available at confederationcentre.com.