Hamilton is getting its own country festival, and the first edition arrives with serious credentials. The Route 905 Country Festival has announced its full lineup for July 24 and 25, 2026 at the historic Ancaster Fairgrounds. Two days, two headliners, and a bill stacked with Canadian talent and international draws. Tickets are on sale now at Route905.ca, with general admission starting at $85 CAD before fees.
Brett Kissel opens the festival Friday night. The numbers speak for themselves: 23 CCMA Awards, three JUNO Awards, over 170 million career streams, and a catalogue loaded with Platinum and Gold-certified hits including “Airwaves,” “Anthem,” and “Drink About Me.” Joining him on Friday are CCMA Male Artist of the Year Jade Eagleson, Platinum-certified songwriter Madeline Merlo, rising star Ryan Langdon, and the winner of the Route 905 Emerging Artist Showcase presented in partnership with 93.9 Hot Country.
Chase Rice closes Saturday with the full weight of 2.9 billion global streams and three number one country radio hits behind him. Rice is also co-writer of “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line, a Diamond-certified single and one of the defining songs of modern country music. Saturday also features American Idol Season 19 winner Chayce Beckham, whose breakout single “23” hit number one on Country Airplay charts in both the US and Canada, alongside Tyler Braden, Angelica Appelman, and Andy Colonico. Both days include a special off-stage acoustic set from Cam Brown.
“Hamilton is home, and we want this festival to reflect that,” said Jovan Popovic, President and CEO of Break First Entertainment. “Our goal is to bring world-class country artists to the Golden Horseshoe while also giving Canadian and local talent the stage they deserve.”
Beyond the music, Route 905 is building a full festival environment with food trucks, vendors, and fan experiences including line dancing lessons. Meet-and-greet packages for select artists will be announced separately. KX 94.7 serves as the festival’s official radio partner.
Route 905 Country Festival 2026:
Friday, July 24 – Ancaster Fairgrounds, Hamilton, ON
Brett Kissel, Jade Eagleson, Madeline Merlo, Ryan Langdon, Route 905 Emerging Artist Showcase Winner
Saturday, July 25 – Ancaster Fairgrounds, Hamilton, ON
Chase Rice, Chayce Beckham, Tyler Braden, Angelica Appelman, Andy Colonico
Both days: Cam Brown (acoustic off-stage set)