Country Thunder expects to break attendance records in return after pandemic – Calgary

Country Thunder is back after a pandemic hiatus and music fans are thrilled the three-day music festival is back.

« We are so excited to be back, » said organizer Megan Benoit.

In 2022, attendance should reach a new record with 25,000 tickets sold – it is also the first time that the event has sold out.

It also takes place at Fort Calgary for the first time.

“We are delighted for the artists, in particular. If they come to Calgary, we’re excited to show them the downtown skyline and it’s a beautiful area between Inglewood and downtown,” Benoit said.

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Country Thunder Alberta roars at Fort Calgary

These artists include Lee Brice, Florida Georgia Line, Morgan Wallen and 90s hitmaker Clay Walker.

Benoit credits Wallen with driving record ticket sales.

« It’s going to be unlike anything they’ve ever seen before, » she said of the star’s live show details.

Florida Georgia Line announced earlier this year that the band was going on hiatus, so Sunday’s show at Country Thunder could be one of the last for a while.

Fans are encouraged to download the festival app and visit the website in advance to find out what is allowed and not allowed inside the gates.

“If you have a small fanny pack or a clutch, one of those shoulder bags is fine. Anything bigger should be clear,” Benoit said.

With temperatures expected to remain warm throughout the weekend, fans are advised to stay hydrated with water. Clear, sealed plastic water bottles are allowed, as well as empty, clear plastic water bottles.

Doors to Country Thunder open Friday, August 19 at noon with the first performance at 2:30 p.m.

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Old Strathcona in Edmonton is having one of its busiest weekends since pre-pandemic