Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

What is OpenGigs?

OpenGigs is Canada's live music marketplace connecting musicians, bands, DJs and venues. Artists discover gigs while restaurants, bars, breweries, wineries, hotels and event venues can quickly find and book live entertainment.

Is OpenGigs free to join?

Yes. Creating an account is completely free during Early Access for both artists and venues.

Will OpenGigs always be free?

During Early Access, yes. After Early Access, we plan to introduce optional membership plans with additional features. Founder Members will receive 50% off eligible subscriptions for life.

What is included during Early Access?

Every feature available during Early Access is free, including creating a profile, browsing gigs, posting gigs, applying for bookings and helping shape future OpenGigs features.

When does OpenGigs launch?

Early Access is available now. Beginning August 1, 2026, venues will be able to post gigs and artists will be able to apply for live performance opportunities.

For Artists

How do I find live music gigs in Toronto?

OpenGigs helps musicians discover live music opportunities across the Greater Toronto Area. Browse available gigs, review the details and apply directly through the platform.

How do artists find gigs?

Artists browse available performance opportunities, review venue requirements and submit applications with one click.

Can solo musicians join OpenGigs?

Yes. Solo performers, duos, full bands, DJs, singers, instrumentalists and entertainers are all welcome on OpenGigs.

What types of gigs are available?

OpenGigs supports restaurants, bars, breweries, wineries, patios, weddings, corporate events, festivals, private parties and community events.

How are artists paid during Early Access?

During Early Access, venues pay artists directly. OpenGigs will introduce secure payment processing in a future release.

Can I have both an Artist and Venue account?

Yes. If you perform as an artist and also manage a venue, you may create separate accounts using different email addresses.

For Venues

How do I hire live musicians?

Create a venue account, post your event or performance date, review artist applications and book the performer that best fits your venue.

How do venues book artists?

Venues post available performance dates, receive artist applications, compare profiles and book the best performer for their event.

What types of venues can join OpenGigs?

Restaurants, bars, breweries, wineries, hotels, golf clubs, wedding venues, festivals, community organizations and private event hosts can all use OpenGigs.

How much does it cost to hire a live band?

Every artist sets their own pricing based on experience, performance length and event requirements. OpenGigs helps venues compare artists and find entertainment that fits their budget.

When do I see the venue name?

Venue identities remain private until a booking has been accepted, helping protect both artists and venues.

Bookings & Payments

Will OpenGigs process payments?

Yes. Secure online payment processing is planned for a future release following Early Access.

Will there be booking fees?

Future membership plans may include booking fees and premium features. Full details will be announced before launch.

Can artists and venues review each other?

Yes. Both artists and venues can leave reviews after a confirmed booking has been completed.

Can reviews be edited?

No. Reviews cannot be edited once submitted, helping maintain fairness and transparency.

Can reviews be removed?

Reviews that violate our Community Guidelines or Terms of Service may be removed.

Founder Members & Early Access

Who are Founder Members?

The first 100 artists and first 30 venues to join OpenGigs become Founder Members and receive exclusive benefits, including 50% off eligible future subscriptions for life.

Why should I join OpenGigs now?

Joining during Early Access gives you the opportunity to become a Founder Member, receive exclusive lifetime benefits, influence future platform features and start building your presence before the public launch.

What features are coming after Early Access?

Upcoming features include secure payments, subscription plans, featured artist profiles, featured venue listings, advanced search filters, booking management tools and much more.

Platform & Support

Where is OpenGigs available?

OpenGigs is launching throughout the Greater Toronto Area, including Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan, Markham, Richmond Hill, Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton, Oshawa, Whitby and Ajax before expanding across Canada.

What happens if an artist doesn't show up?

Repeated no-shows or cancellations may result in warnings, temporary suspension or permanent removal from the OpenGigs platform.

What happens if a venue cancels a booking?

Venues are held to the same standards. Repeated cancellations or abusive behaviour may lead to account restrictions or suspension.

Can OpenGigs suspend accounts?

Yes. Accounts that violate our Terms of Service or Community Guidelines may be suspended or permanently removed.

Can I delete my account?

Yes. Contact our support team and we'll permanently remove your account upon request.

How can I contact OpenGigs?

Whether you have questions, feature suggestions or need support, we'd love to hear from you. Contact us through our Contact page or by email.

How will I know when new features are released?

We'll keep our community informed through email updates and announcements inside OpenGigs. Founder Members and Early Access users will often receive new features before public release.