DevFest is doubling down in 2026. The popular music festival announced it will expand from a single-day event to a two-day celebration, taking place June 26-27, with an impressive lineup that includes nationally acclaimed headliners and beloved local talent.
The announcement comes with major backing from title sponsor Morbern, a local company that has stepped up to support the growing festival. Additional sponsors include Walker Climate Care as secondary sponsors, providing comfort and care amenities including washrooms and tents, while Sky Serenity Spa joins as the sound amplifier sponsor.
Friday Night Kicks Off with Blues and Soul
The festival opens Friday evening with Cornwall legend Trevor Walsh, whose Trevor Walsh Group will set the tone for the weekend. The night continues with Ottawa’s Angelique Francis Band, who earned eight blues award nominations at the Junos this March. Francis has drawn comparisons to soul, blues, and gospel greats for her powerful performances that span multiple genres.
Closing out Friday night is hometown hero Paul Deslaurier, now performing as Chambers Deslaurier Band alongside his wife, the talented Annika Chambers. Deslaurier, one of the most decorated blues artists in Canadian history, is currently touring in Florida but will return home for DevFest. The duo has built a reputation for delivering some of the best blues performances across North America.
Saturday Brings Rock Energy and Star Power
Saturday’s programming starts earlier in the afternoon, around 2:30-3:00 PM, with Cornwall’s own Harry Lee Fallen (also known as Uncle Harry and the Kickstands). The Toronto-based performer writes songs about growing up in Cornwall and serves as a representative for Elora Brewing Company.
Local favorites the County Lads follow, bringing their high-energy stage presence to what organizers expect will be a crowd of thousands. The afternoon continues with Luscious, a Kingston-based rock band fronted by Brielle LeBlanc, whose commanding stage presence has earned comparisons to Gwen Stefani and Blondie.
Headliners Bring International Star Power
The Saturday night headliners represent a major coup for the festival. The Strumbellas, who have streamed over a billion times worldwide, will take the stage with their portfolio of hits including a number one Billboard alternative song and top 10 placements in over 10 countries. The Juno Award and iHeartRadio Music Award winners have appeared on major television shows including The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and James Corbin.
Following The Strumbellas, Nova Scotia’s The Trews will close out the festival. The Antigonish-based rock band has shared stages with legends including the Rolling Stones, Kiss, Guns N’ Roses, Aerosmith, Weezer and Bruce Springsteen. Their platinum-certified albums and East Coast Music Awards have built them a devoted following across the country.
Festival Details and Ticketing
Organizers emphasize this is a rain-or-shine event, with extensive coverage planned for inclement weather. The festival will not offer scheduled seating, though picnic tables will be available in food and beverage areas. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs.
Beverage sponsors include Bud Light, No. 99 Spirits, and Peller Estates, with additional partnerships to be announced.
Early bird ticket pricing is available now: two-day weekend passes are $64.95, Saturday-only tickets are $49.95, and Friday-only admission is $24.95. Limited VIP tickets remain available.
The expansion follows a successful inaugural year that featured 54-40, who have since recommended DevFest to other touring acts. With this year’s lineup representing a significant step up in scale and ambition, organizers are already looking ahead to what 2027 might bring.
For tickets and updates, visit the DevFest website.
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