Sussex SummerFEST 2026

An Evening of New Brunswick Talent

Join us on Saturday, July 4th, at the 8th Hussars Sports Centre for a night dedicated to the incredible music and stories of our home province. Following our free family night at Burton Park, Saturday is our big ticketed event, bringing together local legends and rising stars on one stage.

As a volunteer-run non-profit, our goal is to keep high-quality entertainment accessible and affordable for all our neighbours. This show is the heart of that mission—a celebration of community, connection, and the music that brings us together.

🎸 Riley Taylor

Our headliner is a true local success story. Raised just down the road in Burton and shaped by his upbringing in a military family, Riley writes songs rooted in real life and real places. With over 9 million streams and a 2025 CCMA nomination for Alternative Country Album of the Year, he’s coming home to Sussex just as his headlining national tour takes off.

🎤 Joan Kennedy

You can’t talk about the history of New Brunswick music without mentioning Joan Kennedy. From her early days singing around the kitchen table to a career spanning three decades and six albums, Joan is a member of our provincial Music Hall of Fame and a 2024 inductee into the Maine Country Music Hall of Fame. We are honored to have such a legendary voice join us.

🎻 The Big Wind Show Band

Terry and the band are the heartbeat of our local music scene. With a history playing everything from Celtic to country across the East Coast, Terry’s energy is infectious. The Big Wind Show Band—including Steve, Marlee, Dave, Rob, and "Herb" Sears—always brings a high-energy, versatile performance that feels like a kitchen party for the whole town.

🎸 Ethan Paquet

Opening the night is Ethan Paquet, accompanied by the Big Wind band. Ethan and Terry have a long-standing musical connection, even recording a CD together titled Passing it On. It’s the perfect way to kick off an evening focused on the talent of our region.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, July 4, 2026
• Venue: 8th Hussars Sports Centre, Sussex, NB
• Mission: All proceeds go directly back into community programming.

This project is funded in part by the Government of Canada. Their support, along with our local sponsors, helps us keep ticket prices low and ensures SummerFEST remains an event where everyone in our community belongs.

Grab your tickets and help us celebrate the music of New Brunswick!