Festival season officially starts here! Thank you to the business and community leaders who joined us at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa on February 24 to celebrate the release of the 2026 Ottawa Bluesfest lineup at our February Business After 5. With the energy of live music from Juno award-winning artist Angelique Francis and the buzz of anticipation in the room, it was a fitting way to celebrate one of our city’s most iconic festivals!
Ottawa Bluesfest is more than a summer tradition – it draws visitors, supports local businesses, and showcases our city on a national and international stage. We were pleased to hear from Ottawa Bluesfest Founder and Executive Director Mark Monahan, who spoke about the continued growth of the festival and the partnerships that help to make it all happen.
Thank you to our lead series sponsor Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa for hosting us! As one of Ottawa’s newest entertainment destinations, and in celebration of their new multi-year partnership with Ottawa Bluesfest, it provided the perfect backdrop to bring Ottawa’s business community together to connect and kick off the season in style.
A big thank you as well to our sponsors IG Wealth Management, and Taylor Co. Ltd. for their ongoing support of the Business After 5 series. We were also proud to spotlight Wheelchair Basketball Canada and the work they do to strengthen our community.
View photos from the event here.