Denim on the Diamond returns to Kelowna with strongest lineup yet

Denim on the Diamond is set to return to City Park this September with its strongest lineup yet, marking a comeback year for the three-day festival after a one-year hiatus.

The Kelowna-based event runs Sept. 11 to 13 and will feature headliners Portugal. The Man, Nate Smith and Ian Asher, alongside artists including Goldie Boutilier, JIMI, Wuki and Eli and Fur, with more acts still to be announced.

Organizers said the 2026 edition brings the festival back to its City Park home after incorporating feedback from attendees who wanted the waterfront location and a slightly later date in September.

Saturday night will feature country headliner Nate Smith, who was originally scheduled to perform at the festival in 2023 before that year’s event was cancelled due to wildfires in the Okanagan. His return marks a long-awaited appearance for both fans and organizers.

The lineup also highlights Canadian talent, including Goldie Boutilier and BC artist JIMI, who will perform on separate nights across the weekend.

Goldie Boutilier is set for Saturday’s country-focused night alongside Smith, while JIMI will take the stage Sunday ahead of closing act Portugal. The Man.

Festival organizers said the event continues to focus on blending genres across country, rock and electronic music, with performances spread over three themed nights.

Denim on the Diamond is produced by Thick as Thieves Entertainment, which said its festivals over the past nine years have generated an estimated $60 million in economic activity across the Okanagan.

The festival runs Sept. 11 to 13 at Kelowna City Park.

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