Calgary Bluesfest will proceed despite Country Thunder cancellation
Bluesfest producer says the festival will run July 30 to August 2 rain or shine as Country Thunder pulls out of Confluence.
The day's top stories, food & events — every morning at 7. Unsubscribe anytime.
Calgary Bluesfest will proceed as scheduled even as Country Thunder dismantles its site following a last-minute cancellation of this weekend's event.
Bluesfest producer and artistic director Cindy McLeod confirmed Friday that the festival has no intentions of cancelling and will operate through whatever challenges arise. "We run rain or shine," she said, noting 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. However, some city officials said they were blindsided by the decision, noting that staff had been on-site as recently as Wednesday morning confirming preparations were in place.
Ward 7 Councillor Myke Atkinson suggested "something else" may have influenced the organizers' decision, noting that the stage and fencing were already set up and accommodations had been made.
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.
Bluesfest runs July 30 to August 2.