North Idaho’s premier outdoor concert series returns to War Memorial Field in Sandpoint this week, with a packed lineup spanning pop, country, rock, and blues scheduled from July 30 through August 5. The 2026 Festival at Sandpoint opens its first full week with five nights of live music, drawing fans from across the region to the shores of Lake Pend Oreille.
Week One Lineup at a Glance
Thursday, July 30 launches the week with pop artist Andy Grammer, joined by Canadian group Walk Off the Earth. Gates open at 6 p.m. and music begins at 7:30 p.m.
Friday, July 31 brings country and hard rock to the field as Aaron Lewis and the Stateliners take the stage with opening act Dawson Steagall. Gates open at 6 p.m. with music at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, August 1 features Portland-based alternative rock act Portugal. The Man, with gates at 6 p.m. and the show beginning at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, August 2 is designated Community Night, showcasing folk trio Joseph alongside local and regional performers Sydney Dale and Hannah Meehan. Gates open at 6 p.m. and music starts slightly earlier at 7 p.m., making it a family-friendly evening option.
The week wraps up Wednesday, August 5 with a blues-rock double bill: George Thorogood and the Destroyers — celebrating five decades of performing — headline alongside The Robert Cray Band, whose own career now stretches across 50 years. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. This midweek show is worth noting for fans of classic American blues and rock. A benefit concert of a different kind also draws music lovers to the region this season — a Nashville singer is returning to North Idaho in August to support a local food bank, adding to a summer schedule rich with live performance.
What Attendees Need to Know Before Arriving
War Memorial Field is located in downtown Sandpoint, and organizers encourage guests to use the free parking available at Sandpoint High School, 410 S. Division St. A free shuttle runs between the parking lot and the venue entrance throughout each event evening.
Seating inside the venue is first-come, first-served. Guests bringing chairs to the short chair and blanket section should note that back legs must measure four inches or less in height. Blankets and chairs are permitted up to a maximum footprint of 8 feet by 8 feet per group.
The Festival operates as a fully cashless venue. Credit cards, debit cards, and contactless payment methods are all accepted, but cash will not be taken at any point of sale on the grounds.
Outside beverages and liquids are not permitted inside the venue, though free water filling stations are provided throughout the grounds. Guests may bring outside food and soft-sided coolers, but glass containers, hard coolers, and rolling coolers are prohibited. Smoking and vaping are restricted to designated areas only, and marijuana and illegal substances are not allowed on the property.
Once inside, there is no re-entry, so attendees are encouraged to plan accordingly before passing through the gates. Service animals are welcome; other pets are not permitted.
What Comes Next
Week One of the Festival at Sandpoint runs through Wednesday, August 5, with additional performances expected in subsequent weeks as the summer concert season continues. Fans are encouraged to check seating policies and set times in advance, as gates open promptly at 6 p.m. each night. With a lineup ranging from blues legends to alternative rock and community showcases, the 2026 season offers something for a wide cross-section of Bonner County music lovers. Stay with Bonner County News for coverage of upcoming festival weeks and additional summer community events across North Idaho.