Your guide to Eaux Claires long-awaited return weekend

The EauX Claires Music & Arts Festival returns for July 24-25, 2026, for the first time in almost 7 years.

The Eaux Claires Music & Arts Festival will return to Eau Claire, Wisconsin, in 2026. The festival last took place in 2018, following its original run from 2015 to 2018. Justin Vernon of Bon Iver and Aaron Dessner of The National founded the event.

After the 2018 edition, organizers announced a planned hiatus. They wanted time to rethink the festival and focus on long-term sustainability. Another goal was to make the event more community-centered, including a possible move closer to downtown Eau Claire. The festival was set to return in 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic forced those plans to stop. After several years of silence, organizers confirmed the festival’s comeback for 2026.

The announcement came with a teaser video posted on the Eaux Claires Instagram account. The video shows two University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire Blugold Marching Band members playing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” on tubas. According to VolumeOne, the video was filmed at Carson Park’s baseball stadium. Many believe Carson Park will serve as the new festival site.

During its original run, Eaux Claires brought major artists to Vernon’s hometown. Performers included Paul Simon, Erykah Badu, and Sufjan Stevens. The festival became known for rare collaborations and one-of-a-kind sets. Bon Iver debuted 22, A Million at the festival in 2016. Stevens later performed with The National, and Vernon and Dessner introduced their project Big Red Machine. At a time when many festivals feel repetitive, Eaux Claires stood out through creative booking and artist collaboration.

While details for the 2026 festival are still limited, past years provide helpful planning tips for fans traveling to Eau Claire.

Where to Stay

Fans planning to attend in 2026 have several top lodging options. Many past attendees stayed downtown to enjoy walking access to restaurants, bars, and riverfront trails. Popular hotels include The Oxbow Hotel, a boutique spot with a music-centric vibe, and The Lismore Hotel Eau Claire (DoubleTree by Hilton), which offers stylish rooms in the heart of downtown.

For longer stays or group accommodations, Residence Inn by Marriott Eau Claire and SpringHill Suites Eau Claire remain highly recommended, providing spacious suites and convenient access to the city and festival shuttles. Camping was also popular in previous years, with nearby options like Lake Wissota State Park, Stoney Creek RV Resort, or quieter campgrounds along the Eau Claire River offering tent and RV spaces. While on-site festival camping has not been confirmed for 2026, these nearby options remain reliable.

Earlier editions used shuttle systems to transport fans between hotels, parking areas, and the festival grounds. If the festival moves to Carson Park, walkable lodging and downtown stays may become even more convenient.

Exploring & Packing

Between sets, visitors often explored Eau Claire’s coffee shops and breweries. Shift Coffee and Acoustic Café became local favorites for morning coffee or a quick breakfast, while The Brewing Projekt and Lazy Monk Brewing offered relaxed spots for evening drinks and socializing. These venues made festival weekends feel like a complete city experience beyond the music.

Eau Claire’s music scene extends beyond the festival. The Pablo Center at the Confluence hosts concerts, theater, and arts programming year-round, while the Owen Park Bandshell regularly features outdoor summer performances. Smaller shows and pop-up concerts can be found via local listings from Volume One, giving fans more ways to enjoy the city’s creative culture.

Outdoor activities have always been a part of the Eaux Claires experience. Festivalgoers often explored the Chippewa River State Trail, a paved path ideal for walking or biking along the river, or relaxed at Phoenix Park, where the rivers meet downtown. Just outside the city, Lowes Creek County Park offers wooded trails and scenic overlooks, providing a quiet escape between festival days.

Eaux Claires is an outdoor summer festival. Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, refillable water bottles, and light weather gear helped attendees stay comfortable throughout the weekend.

To stay updated on the Eaux Claires Music & Arts Festival, including lineup announcements, ticket information, and location details, fans can sign up for updates through the festival’s website and follow the official Eaux Claires Instagram account.

Featured Image Courtesy of David Szymanski “Variety”

About The Author

Claire Ciserella

Hi, I’m Claire! Originally from Chicago and now based in Los Angeles, I work in the entertainment industry as both a dancer and assistant at an Agency. Along the way, I’ve taken on a wide variety of roles that have allowed me to grow both creatively and professionally. I’m excited to be writing for Exron Music, where I’ve been especially enjoying the travel section. When I’m not working, you’ll probably find me at raves and festivals catching sets from Moore Kismet, Pauline Herr, Adventure Club, and many others. I’m passionate about traveling, discovering new adventures, and finding creative expression in everything I do.

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