Eaux Claires Festival
July 24-25, 2026
You’re not imagining it... The Eaux Claires Festival (pronounced Oh-Klairs), founded by Eau Claire's own Justin Vernon of Bon Iver, is making its long-awaited return to Eau Claire, Wisconsin, July 24–25, 2026! Set in the iconic Carson Park, this festival brings together live music, indie spirit, and Midwest creativity in a way that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new. With easy access to hotels near Eaux Claires Festival, local restaurants, and some of the best things to do in Eau Claire during summer, we’re here to help you plan an unforgettable weekend in music-loving Eau Claire.
2026 Lineup
July 24, 2026
Aaron & Fred, Aimee Mann (playing BACHELOR No. 2), Bizhiki, Black Sabbath Cover Band Rehearsal, Bon Dylan, Hotline TNT, Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen, Kevin Morby, The Union feat. Phil Cook
July 25, 2026
Dijon, Gash, Gully Boys, Julianna Barwick & Marty Lattimore, Known MPLS, Larry Goldings Trio feat. David Piltch & Beth Goodfellow, Monica Martin, Nathan & The Zydeco Cha Chas, Samia, Urban Classic Presents Revelation (a retrospective of The Minneapolis Sound)
And more to come!
WRITERS IN RESIDENCE
Hala Alyan, Gabrielle Calvocoressi, Sean Thor Conroe, Brenda Cárdenas, Safia Elhillo, Avery Gregurich, Nicholas Gulig, Sheila Heti, Patrycja Humienik, Nishant Jain, Donika Kelly, Jon Mueller, Mustafa, Mike Nagel, Benjamin Percy, Michael Perry, Amanda Pertrusich, Harold Rogers, Brent Schoonover, Kyle Seibel, Katie Ka Vang, Adam Voith
Transportation to Eaux Claires Festival
Onsite Parking: SOLD OUT
On-site festival parking is only available to guests who purchased a parking pass in advance. No additional parking passes will be sold on festival days, so please do not drive directly to Carson Park unless you already have a pass. For most festivalgoers, the free park-and-ride shuttle from CVTC will be the easiest way to arrive.
Free Park & Ride Shuttle
Park for free at the Chippewa Valley Technical College parking lot and take a complimentary shuttle directly to the festival entrance.
CVTC Parking Lot
613 W. Clairemont Avenue
Eau Claire, WI 54701
- Service begins at 11:00 AM each festival day
- Shuttles run continuously between CVTC and Carson Park
- Parking and shuttle service are free
- Return shuttles depart from the same festival drop-off area
Get directions to CVTC parking lot.
Rideshare & Drop-Offs
Uber, Lyft and personal vehicle drop-offs must use the designated festival transportation zone near the school turnaround at Lake Street and West Grand Avenue.
Designated Pick-Up and Drop-Off Location
711 Lake Street
Eau Claire, WI 54703
After being dropped off, follow the marked pedestrian route to the festival entrance. All post-festival rideshare pickups will take place at this same location.
Get directions to rideshare zone.
Bike or Ride a Byrd Scooter
Skip the traffic and ride to the festival. Designated bike and scooter parking will be available near the Chippewa Valley Railroad.
Bike & Scooter Parking
811 Carson Park Drive
Eau Claire, WI 54703
Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Bring a lock and secure your bike or scooter before entering the festival. The main entrance is located across the street.
Plan Your Stay at Eaux Claires Festival
Explore Justin Vernon’s Favorite Spots in Eau Claire
A Look Back at Early Eaux Claires in the Media
Explore early interviews, recaps, and press coverage to get a feel for the atmosphere, sound, and creative energy that defined the first Eaux Claires festivals.
Eaux Claires Festival FAQs
What is Eaux Claires Festival?
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Eaux Claires Music Festival is an indie-focused music festival in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, founded by Justin Vernon of Bon Iver, Aaron Dessner of The National, and recognized for its curated sound and creative atmosphere.
When is Eaux Claires Festival?
- Eaux Claires Music Festival will take place July 24–25, 2026, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
Where is Eaux Claires Festival held?
- The festival will take place at Carson Park in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
What kind of music is Eaux Claires Festival known for?
- Eaux Claires is known for a thoughtfully curated lineup with a strong focus on indie, experimental, and genre-blending artists.
How do I get to Eaux Claires Festival?
The Eaux Claires Festival grounds can be accessed via free shuttle, on-site parking, rideshare apps, or bike paths. To learn more about getting to Eaux Claires Festival, please visit the transportation page here. (Note: On-site parking is sold out.)