Nanaimo Blues Society

06/17/2026

Steve Hill tonight at The Globe Live Studio

06/10/2026

Vancouver Island is losing another major festival....
'due to rising production costs, shifting consumer behaviour and the realities of operating in a smaller market like Victoria have made it increasingly difficult to sustain the festival.
According to the organization, ticket sales do not support the level of investment and growing financial risks required to produce the event without making significant compromises".

These same factors are very real for the Nanaimo Blues Festival 2026 and we need your help in getting word out for our beautiful festival and bringing up ticket sales. We are working hard to continue to bring one of Nanaimo's premiere festivals to you and 2026 marks our 21st year.
We will miss Rifflandia and they had some great acts over the years. Shout out to the organizers, volunteers, sponsors and everyone who made this festival possible over the years.

Rifflandia has announced the official end of their annual festival and the “September Forever” mantra. 🎵

The festival has been around for 18 years and has produced 15 annual festivals in that time, but recently made the decision to conclude its namesake festival.

Blasko says that rising production costs, shifting consumer behaviour and the realities of operating in a smaller market like Victoria have made it increasingly difficult to sustain the festival.

According to the organization, ticket sales do not support the level of investment and growing financial risks required to produce the event without making significant compromises.

This year, the BC government was going to provide the festival with $90,000 in grant funding, but ultimately, Rifflandia chose to cancel the event altogether rather than pivoting to something smaller.

“As this chapter comes to a close, we look forward to seeing a new generation of creators, promoters, artists, and community builders who will shape the next chapter of live music and culture in Victoria.”

Read the full article on Victoria Buzz

06/05/2026

06/03/2026

It’s here…. The official line up for this years Nanaimo Blues Fest and it’s gonna be a good one!!! Get your tix today link in bio!

06/03/2026

Full festival line up. Get your tickets at nanaimoblues.tickit.ca

05/29/2026

BIG TALENT COMING THIS SUMMER! Yes and will be at The Nanaimo Blues Fest this summer and all 3 are Canadian Blues Music award winners! Get your tix now!!!