A chartered train with 14 cars carried rock legends like Janis Joplin and the Grateful Dead across Canada for a series of concerts in 1970.
“Festival Express... The longest party in rock-n-roll history.”
Synopsis
A chartered train with 14 cars carried rock legends like Janis Joplin and the Grateful Dead across Canada for a series of concerts in 1970.
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Synopsis
Janis Joplin and the Grateful Dead share a train car during the summer of 1970 as they travel across Canada for the Festival Express. The tour features live performances in Toronto, Winnipeg, and Calgary, bringing together some of North America's most celebrated rock musicians. The film includes original concert footage and candid moments from the train, where artists engage in jam sessions and revelry. Produced by Gavin Poolman and directed by Bob Smeaton, the documentary captures the spirit of a unique musical event.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- See Janis Joplin and Jerry Garcia jam on a train.
- Find out why the Montreal concert was canceled.
- Meet the bands that defined rock in the 1970s.
Did You Know
- The train for Festival Express consisted of 14 cars, including two engines.
- The Montreal event was canceled due to St. Jean-Baptiste Day celebrations.
- Festival Express was released by THINKFilm in the U.S. and Optimum Releasing in the U.K.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What year did the Festival Express train tour take place?
The Festival Express train tour took place in the summer of 1970.
Which rock bands participated in the Festival Express tour?
Some of the rock bands that participated included Grateful Dead, Janis Joplin, The Band, and Buddy Guy.
How many cities did the Festival Express tour visit?
The Festival Express tour visited three Canadian cities: Toronto, Winnipeg, and Calgary.
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