Salmon Arm Roots & Blues Festival draws nearly 30,000 despite weather interruptions

The 34th annual Salmon Arm Roots & Blues Festival took place in Salmon Arm, British Columbia, from July 28‑30, 2026. About 29,500 attendees gathered on 16 acres, with roughly half of ticket‑buyers attending for the first time. High winds forced the early cancellation of several Friday performances and lightning warnings paused Saturday shows, but organizers kept the event running and praised volunteers, staff and sponsors for their response.

Artistic director Kevin Tobin highlighted the festival’s goal of attracting younger audiences and noted that the community’s energy remained high despite the weather. Festival chair Alan Bates and long‑time volunteer Maggie Clermont were also cited for their contributions.

Following the festival, the Salmon Arm Folk Music Society and the Celebrate Shuswap Society scheduled a series of concerts at the town’s Song Sparrow Hall, featuring artists such as Shawn "The Harpoonist" Hall, The East Pointers, and Steve Marriner, extending the music season into the fall.