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Fort Bragg is about to explode with blues magic this weekend. The second annual Fort Bragg Blues Festival kicks off Friday with 11 incredible bands across three days. Grammy-nominated guitarist Roy Rogers headlines Saturday’s main stage at Noyo Headlands Park.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Dates: May 1-3, 2026, downtown Fort Bragg and Noyo Headlands Park
- Headliner: Roy Rogers and the Delta Rhythm Kings on Saturday, 5:00 PM
- Total Acts: 11 bands across 4 venues featuring traditional blues, americana, and rock
- Bonus Event: Roaring 20’s kick-off Thursday on the Skunk Train with Stella & The Starlights
A Blues Revival Returns to the Coastal Town
After a successful inaugural year, the Fort Bragg Blues Festival doubles down on talent. The second annual celebration brings world-class musicians to the rugged Northern California coast. Three days of performances span four intimate venues, from downtown’s Town Hall to the oceanfront Noyo Headlands Park. Music fans say this festival captures the raw essence of authentic blues.
The festival features free community concerts alongside ticketed weekend shows. All Access passes grant entry to downtown performances, while separate day passes and headliner-only tickets are available. Food vendors, beer, and wine round out the experience overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
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Roy Rogers Brings Slide Guitar Mastery
Roy Rogers stands as one of today’s most celebrated slide guitarists. His Delta Rhythm Kings have fronted alongside him since 1980, creating a powerhouse trio that mesmerizes audiences. The Grammy-nominated producer released his latest album, The Sky’s the Limit, in 2026. His signature slide style instantly captivates every listener.
According to the official festival, Roy Rogers plays Saturday from 5:00 to 6:30 PM at the Festival Grounds. A recent shoutout confirmed his excitement for the North Coast. This is not a show to miss for blues enthusiasts seeking authentic, virtuosic guitar mastery.
Complete Three-Day Lineup Across All Venues
The festival packs maximum variety into each day. Friday opens with Red’s Blues Band (featuring Sacramento Red) at 2:00 PM, followed by Black Horse Blues Band and Tia Carroll & Her Awesome Band. Saturday offers a free community concert featuring Mighty T-Bones at Bainbridge Park Pavilion. The festival grounds then host GeminiiDRAGON (featuring guitarist Linwood Taylor), Mike Hammar & The Nails, and Roy Rogers. Sunday closes with Matt Axton Band, Steve Lucky & The Rhumba Bums (featuring Miss Carmen Getit), and Aki Kumar.
| Day | Key Acts | Main Venue |
| Friday | Red’s Blues, Black Horse, Tia Carroll | Town Hall, Tall Guy Brewing |
| Saturday | Roy Rogers (5:00 PM headliner) | Noyo Headlands Park (Gates Noon) |
| Sunday | Aki Kumar, Steve Lucky, Matt Axton | Noyo Headlands Park (Gates 11 AM) |
Each band brings distinct flavor to the weekend. Red’s Blues Band offers traditional blues and Americana roots music. Matt Axton and Aki Kumar represent newer voices in the scene. Steve Lucky & The Rhumba Bums add energetic Latin-influenced grooves. This diverse mix ensures something for every taste.
“3 Days. 4 Venues. 11 Bands Downtown Fort Bragg + Noyo Headlands Park overlooking the Pacific Ocean!”
— Visit Mendocino, Event Organizers
Tickets, Logistics, and Special Events
All tickets are now on sale through fortbragg.ticketbud.com/bluesfest. All Access passes cover all downtown venues plus weekend festival grounds access. Day passes let attendees cherry-pick which events matter most. Headliner-only passes cover Roy Rogers specifically. Gates open at noon Saturday and 11 AM Sunday.
Gate check-in opens 45 minutes before each show. Roy Rogers takes the stage at 5:00 PM Saturday, so gates open at 4:15 PM. A Thursday preview event kicks off on the Skunk Train with Stella & The Starlights for those wanting an exclusive Roaring 20’s party. Food, beer, wine, and merchandise stands run throughout the festival.
Why Fort Bragg Blues Matters This Memorial Day Weekend?
Cultural events like this spotlight small coastal towns and build community. The Fort Bragg Blues Festival attracts regional and national artists, boosting local tourism and restaurants. Mendocino County thrives when festivals celebrate its artistic heritage. This second annual edition proves the event has staying power and growing momentum.
Mendocino’s vibrant music scene punches well above its population weight. Roy Rogers choosing to headline demonstrates the festival’s credibility. Fans traveling from San Francisco, Sacramento, and beyond will discover why Fort Bragg merits a weekend trip. The Pacific coastal scenery, fresh seafood, and world-class blues combine for unforgettable memories.
Sources
- Fort Bragg Blues Festival Official Website – Complete lineup, schedule, and ticketing information
- Visit Mendocino – Event details and venue information
- Roy Rogers Official – Artist biography and performance confirmation
