NEW BLUES FESTIVAL 2026
Aug 29th–30th, 2026
Shoreline Aquatic Park — Long Beach, CA
2026 Lineup
Come Join The Heart of the Blues
The New Blues Music Festival returns to Long Beach for two full days dedicated to the rich sounds and spirit of blues and jazz. Blues is more than just a genre — it's a storytelling tradition that reflects life's struggles, joys, and everything in between. At this festival, you'll hear that raw emotion and soulful expression come alive on stage, creating an atmosphere that's both powerful and intimate. Past years have featured Buddy Guy, Shemekia Copeland, and Kingfish Ingram. This year's roster continues that tradition with a powerful mix of headliners, rising stars, and homegrown talent.
Our Home
Experience Our Blues Music Festival
Our home at Shoreline Aquatic Park offers sweeping waterfront views, a cooling ocean breeze, and open green spaces perfect for picnics, dancing, or relaxing in the sun. The park's gentle slope gives every spot a sightline — whether you're up front by the stage or stretched out on a blanket further back.
Located just minutes from the Long Beach Convention Center, Aquarium of the Pacific, and downtown hotels, the festival is easily accessible by public transit, car, bike, or foot. Expect a powerful mix of national headliners, regional favorites, and local rising stars — and this year is shaping up to be our most diverse and dynamic lineup yet.
More Than Music
What to Expect at New Blues Festival
The New Blues Festival is a full cultural experience — two days of world-class performances surrounded by great food, local art, and a community that shares your love for authentic live music.
Live Music on Multiple Stages
Two full days of blues, roots, gospel, and jazz across main and second stages. From national headliners to local youth performers, every time slot brings something worth hearing.
Curated Artist Lineup
National headliners, regional favorites, and local rising stars — 20+ performers each year. Our lineup is built to showcase the full range of what blues music can be in 2026.
Food & Beverage Vendors
Local food trucks, bars serving beer and wine, and non-alcoholic options throughout the festival grounds. From BBQ to gourmet street food, there's something for every appetite.
Artisan Marketplace
Handcrafted goods, instruments, art, and festival merchandise from local makers. Discover one-of-a-kind pieces and meet the artists behind them between sets.
Music Education Programs
Workshops, panel discussions, and exhibits that connect blues history with the next generation of musicians. Learn about the roots of the music while discovering where it's headed.
Community Partnerships
Nonprofit support and music education funding that ensures the blues tradition continues to thrive. Every ticket purchased helps support these programs in Long Beach and beyond.
A Decade of Blues
10 Years in Long Beach
The New Blues Festival was born out of a deep respect for the legacy of blues music and a bold vision to carry its spirit into the 21st century. What started as a grassroots celebration in Long Beach, California, has evolved into one of the West Coast's premier blues music experiences — a Labor Day Weekend tradition that draws fans from across Southern California and beyond.
Built on the lineage of the original Long Beach Blues Festival founded by Bernie Pearl — the "Dean of the Blues in Southern California" — the New Blues Festival carries forward a 45-year legacy of live blues music in this city. Each year we honor that heritage while pushing the music into exciting new territory.
This year marks our 10th anniversary. It's a milestone we share with every person who has ever spread a blanket on the grass, danced in front of the stage, or discovered a new favorite artist at our festival.
Our Full StoryWhat People Say
Voices From the Festival
Michael R.The best blues festival on the West Coast, hands down. Every year the lineup delivers, and watching live music with the ocean breeze and sunset behind the stage is an experience you can't get anywhere else. We've been coming since year two and it just keeps getting better.
Dana W.We drove down from Ventura for the weekend and it was absolutely worth it. Great mix of legendary artists and new talent. The whole family had a blast — even my teenagers put their phones down and actually watched the music. The food vendors were solid too.
Carlos G.Long Beach needed this. A genuine blues festival with real artists and a community feel — not some over-produced corporate event. The workshops and music education program are a bonus you don't see at most festivals. Can't wait for year ten.
Get In Touch
Contacting New Blues Festival
At the New Blues Festival, we believe that every question deserves a heartfelt answer and every inquiry is an opportunity for connection. Whether you're curious about our star-studded lineup, need assistance with ticketing, or simply want to share your excitement for the festival, our dedicated team is here to help you every step of the way. Reach out to us through our contact form or via email, and let us know how we can enhance your festival experience.
Contact Our TeamQuick Answers
New Blues Festival FAQs
Welcome to our FAQs, where you'll find quick answers to common questions. Whether you're looking for information on tickets, policies, or event details, we've got you covered.
The New Blues Festival takes place August 29–30, 2026 at Shoreline Aquatic Park, 200 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802. The festival runs Labor Day Weekend with two full days of live blues and roots music on multiple stages.
Pricing varies by tier — General Admission, Gold Pass, and VIP Pass. Purchase online at newbluesfestival.com/tickets. Children under 12 enter free with a paid adult ticket.
Parking is available at the Pike Parking Garage, 65 South Cedar Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802. The festival is also accessible via Long Beach Transit. Visit ridelbt.com for routes and schedules.
Small chairs, blankets, empty reusable water bottles, and sealed water bottles are permitted. Outside alcohol, drugs, glass containers, large umbrellas, couches, bags larger than a backpack, and weapons of any kind are strictly prohibited.
Yes. The festival is ADA compliant with designated parking, accessible pathways, and accessible restrooms. For additional accommodations, email newbluesfestival2025@gmail.com.
Labor Day Weekend
Join Us at the Waterfront
The 10th Anniversary New Blues Festival — August 29–30, 2026 at Shoreline Aquatic Park in Long Beach, CA. Two days of live blues, roots music, great food, and an incredible community. Tickets are available now.