Eaux Claires 2026: Dijon, Daniel Caesar & Bon Iver's Return

The Eaux Claires festival is set to return to Carson Park in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, on July 24-25, boasting a lineup led by Dijon, Daniel Caesar, Lil Yachty, and Aimee Mann. The festival, founded by Justin Vernon of Bon Iver and Aaron Dessner of The National, previously ran from 2015 to 2018.

A Return to the Stage for Justin Vernon

The return of Eaux Claires sparked questions about whether Justin Vernon would perform, given his recent vow to take a break from live shows while promoting his Grammy-nominated 2025 album, SABLE, fABLE. However, Vernon did return to the stage in December, appearing as a surprise guitarist with Dijon at Terminal 5 in New York and on NBC’s Saturday Night Live.

A New Project: Bon Dylan

While Bon Iver isn’t officially listed on the lineup, a project called “Bon Dylan” is scheduled to perform. Sources indicate this will feature Vernon alongside currently unannounced, high-profile guests in a celebration of Bob Dylan’s music.

Diverse Lineup and Local Talent

Aimee Mann will perform her 2000 album, Bachelor No. 2 or, the Last Remains of the Dodo, in its entirety. The festival will also feature performances by Kevin Morby, Julianna Barwick and Mary Lattimore, Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas, Monica Martin, Hotline TNT, and The Union featuring Phil Cook.

Did You Know? The Eaux Claires festival debuted in 2015 with performances by Bon Iver, The National, Sturgill Simpson, Sylvan Esso, Spoon, and Indigo Girls.

The festival is also showcasing local Minneapolis talent with “Urban Classic Presents Revelation,” featuring Prince drummer Michael Bland and vocalist Liv Warfield.

Beyond Music: Writers in Residence

Eaux Claires will also host its inaugural class of Writers In Residence, including Sheila Heti, Sean Thor Conroe, Benjamin Percy, Mustafa, Amanda Petrusich, Katie Ka Vang, Michael Perry, Kyle Seibel and Adam Voith. Additional shows are planned in the area surrounding the festival dates.

Ticket Information

Local residents have the first opportunity to purchase tickets today, February 12, at locations like the Local Store, Leona’s Pizzeria, Revival Records, and the Racy D’Lenes Coffee Lounge. A fan presale is scheduled for Friday at 9 AM CT, with remaining tickets becoming available an hour later.

Expert Insight: The inclusion of a “Writers in Residence” program suggests a deliberate effort to broaden the festival’s appeal beyond purely musical performance, fostering a more holistic artistic experience.

Additional Performance and Benefit Concert

Justin Vernon is also slated to appear at the I.C.E. OUT! benefit show on February 15 at First Avenue in Minneapolis, alongside artists like Alan Sparhawk of Low and Amelia Meath of Sylvan Esso. Proceeds from this event will support families impacted by escalating immigration aids in the Twin Cities. Tickets for I.C.E. OUT! are sold out, but fans can bid for a chance to attend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dates for the Eaux Claires festival?

The Eaux Claires festival is scheduled for July 24-25.

Where will the festival be held?

The festival will take place at Carson Park in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.

Who founded the Eaux Claires festival?

The festival was founded by Justin Vernon of Bon Iver and Aaron Dessner of The National.

Will the festival’s return signal a broader trend of smaller, curated music experiences gaining prominence in the coming years?

Eaux Claires 2026: Dijon, Daniel Caesar & Bon Iver’s Return