Calgary Bluesfest still on at Confluence after Country Thunder pulls out
Posted Jun 26, 2026 11:22 am.
One major Calgary music festival has walked away from the Confluence, but another says its plans remain unchanged.
Calgary Bluesfest confirmed it will proceed as scheduled, even as Country Thunder dismantles its site following a last‑minute decision to cancel this weekend’s event.
Bluesfest producer and artistic director Cindy McLeod said the festival is prepared to operate through whatever challenges arise.
“Bluesfest has no intentions of cancelling,” says McLeod. “We run rain or shine.”
She adds that summer construction is something most Calgary events learn to navigate.
Country Thunder blamed noise restrictions, nearby construction and a late installation of a water‑line bypass pipe for its withdrawal. But some city officials say they were blindsided, noting staff had been on-site as recently as Wednesday morning confirming preparations were in place.
Ward 7 Coun. Myke Atkinson said accommodations had been made and the stage and fencing were already set up, suggesting “something else” may have influenced the organizers’ decision.
Country Thunder says all ticket holders will receive refunds.
The cancellation comes amid political tension over noise rules affecting Stampede‑adjacent music festivals, though those restrictions do not apply to either Country Thunder or Bluesfest.
Farkas struck a more conciliatory tone Thursday, thanking the province for its engagement on public‑safety concerns.
“I appreciate the positive engagement from the provincial government, really want to especially applaud Minister Mike Ellis for his engagement on addressing some of the public safety concerns,” said the mayor.
Bluesfest runs July 30 to August 2.
