Sunday brought a laid-back mix of folk, indie rock, hip-hop, and pop to Day 4 of Ottawa Bluesfest 2026, giving festivalgoers a relaxing yet entertaining evening at LeBreton Flats.
Headlining the RBC Main Stage were American folk-rock favourites The Lumineers, who performed in front of an elaborate stage production that extended into the crowd, creating a more intimate experience for fans.
During the photo pit, I was able to capture the opening five songs: “Same Old Song,” “Flowers in Your Hair,” “Angela,” “A.M. RADIO,” and “Asshole.” While I’m still partial to their breakthrough hit “Ho Hey,” which I didn’t stay to hear, there was no denying the enthusiastic response from the audience, who embraced the band’s signature blend of heartfelt folk-pop and anthemic singalongs.
Earlier on the main stage, Leif Vollebekk returned to Ottawa with a beautiful performance showcasing songs from his acclaimed 2024 album Revelation.
The Montreal-based singer-songwriter, who previously lived in Ottawa, delivered a warm and intimate set that highlighted his thoughtful songwriting and soulful musicianship.
Opening the RBC Main Stage was summersets, the collaborative project of Kalle Mattson and Andrew Sowka.
The duo eased fans into the afternoon with a mellow collection of indie folk and indie rock songs, providing a fitting start to Sunday’s more relaxed atmosphere.
The LeBreton Stage leaned heavily into indie and roots rock throughout the day.
Gatineau folk-rock outfit Les Rats d’Swompe kicked things off before Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band raised the energy with their blues-infused Americana.
Australian singer-songwriter Hazlett closed the stage with a heartfelt indie-folk performance that perfectly complemented the evening’s easy-going vibe.
Meanwhile, the Hard Rock Stage offered one of the day’s most energetic lineups.
Gatineau’s Mehdi Cayenne opened with his colourful and theatrical blend of art-pop and electro-pop.
Toronto rapper DijahSB followed with an engaging hip-hop set before Canadian viral sensation bbno$ closed the stage in style.
Mixing infectious pop-rap, electronic beats, and plenty of humour, bbno$ delivered one of the festival’s most entertaining performances, keeping the crowd dancing and singing along from start to finish.
Overall, Sunday showcased the versatility of Ottawa Bluesfest 2026, with each stage offering something different for music fans.
Whether you were looking for intimate folk performances, energetic indie rock, or high-energy hip-hop, Day 4 delivered another memorable chapter of this year’s festival.
Be sure to check out the photo gallery for highlights from another fantastic day at Ottawa Bluesfest 2026.
