osheaga launches strict new bag policy, allowing clear backpacks only
2 minute read
fans attend the osheaga festival at parc jean-drapeau in montreal on sunday, aug. 3, 2025.
john mahoney
/
montreal gazette
montreal’s osheaga festival returns from friday to sunday with a new bag policy.osheaga announced on instagram this month that while bags up to a maximum size of 23 x 15 x 10 cm can be non-transparent, larger bags up to 30 x 30 x 23 cm must be transparent. any bags that do not comply with these dimensions are not permitted."to speed up traffic flow at entrances and to promote the safety of employees, artists and festivalgoers, the size and type of bag that can be brought onto the site is limited. furthermore, we encourage you to bring clear bags to the event," the osheaga website's faq says. hydration packs that are not backpacks are permitted if they are empty at the entrance, according to the osheaga faq. exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis for items required for medical reasons after proper inspection.here's what else you need to know before heading to parc jean-drapeau this weekend:
water bottles can be refilled on site
staying hydrated is essential throughout the festival, and festivalgoers don't need to pay for water. empty plastic water bottles, empty reusable water bottles and hydration packs are allowed through security and can be refilled at water stations throughout the festival grounds.food may be confiscated
the festival organizers’ policy does not allow outside food or drink of any kind, including alcohol. you might be able to get away with a sandwich, but be ready to scarf it down in the security line.legal weed is allowed
the festival does not permit illegal or illicit substances of any kind, but there is no mention of cannabis in osheaga's list of forbidden items.where to go if you’re feeling unsafe or unwell
if you have questions about substance use, are experiencing sexual harassment, are looking for a way to test drugs or are feeling unwell and want advice from harm-reduction staff, an on-site truck will be run by grip — a montreal-based organization that helps people feel safe and included, as well as make informed and judgment-free decisions about drug use.the gazette team will be bringing you updates from the festival all weekend long. from big artist names to sweet festival moments, you can follow our coverage on the gazette's website.share story
