RAISE YOUR HAT SUMMER’S ON Festivals, Friends & Memories in the Making
by Ryan Myson
Every summer, as the prairie sun stretches long into golden evenings and the rhythm of country music rolls across Manitoba’s Parkland region, something special happens just outside the town of Dauphin. Fields transform into a vibrant gathering place where boots kick up dust, guitars tell stories, and thousands of fans come together for one of Canada’s most beloved music traditions— Dauphin Countryfest. More than just a music festival, Countryfest is a rite of passage for country fans across the country. It’s where friendships are forged over campfires, where strangers become neighbours, and where the shared love of music creates a sense of community that lasts long after the final encore. From the moment you arrive, there’s an unmistakable energy in the air—one that blends anticipation, nostalgia, and the simple joy of being part of something bigger. Set against the natural beauty of Riding Mountain’s foothills, the festival grounds offer a perfect backdrop for days filled with live performances and nights lit by stage lights and prairie stars. The lineup consistently delivers a mix of chart-topping headliners, rising stars, and homegrown Canadian talent, ensuring that every set feels like a highlight. Whether it’s a heartfelt ballad that brings a crowd to silence or a high-energy anthem that has thousands singing in unison, the music at Countryfest
doesn’t just entertain—it connects. But what truly defines Dauphin Countryfest is the experience beyond the stage. It’s the early morning coffee shared with campsite neighbours, the laughter echoing from RV rows, and the spontaneous jam sessions that pop up long after the main acts have finished. It’s the food vendors serving up everything from classic festival fare to local favourites, and the marketplace filled with western wear, handmade goods, and keepsakes that capture the spirit of the weekend. For many, the tradition runs deep. Families return year after year, introducing new generations to the magic of the festival. Friends plan their summers around it, counting down the days until they can reunite on familiar ground. And for first- timers, it quickly becomes clear why so many consider Countryfest a bucket-list event—it’s not just something you attend, it’s something you feel. As the sound of guitars drifts across the open fields and the crowd sways beneath the prairie sky, Dauphin Countryfest reminds us of the power of music to bring people together. It’s a celebration of country culture, community, and the kind of unforgettable moments that only happen when the right place, the right people, and the right songs all come together.
June 25th - 28th Dauphin, MB Headliners: Jelly Roll Nate Smith Tyler Hubbard
The Summer Music Festival market remains extremely competitive, with organizers battling each year to secure the best superstar, iconic, and up-and-coming artists to headline and perform at music festivals across Canada. We have researched the artists, venues, perks, and reviews both personally from our team and from festivalgoers to find what we think are the best of the best and worthy of your hard- earned money, as we pack up the Summer Cruiser for the first twelve stops on this year’s Sounds of Summer Series for 2026.
W e have selected the following for Part 1 of our Napier’s Ultimate Outdoor Music Festival Tour for 2026. Other than by date, there is no particular order for these
festivals, as we believe they all offer amazing venues and spectacular superstar artist line-ups for this Summer, specifically June and July. We are confident that you, our
readers, will find that perfect festival that is just right for you, but we do recommend that you do not take too long to decide, as these events are selling out fast!
For more on this event or tickets for this event, go to https://countryfest.ca/
100 SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • VOL 26 ISSUE 3
BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE 101
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