The popular Back Cove Festival in Portland will not be held in 2026 due to delays in finalizing a new contract with the city. Organizers announced the cancellation, citing a lengthy approval process that hindered their ability to effectively plan the event. They are now seeking to amend the contract to begin in 2027 instead.
In a statement released on social media, festival organizers, including GoodWorks Entertainment and Shore Sound, emphasized their commitment to delivering a high-quality festival experience. They explained that ensuring the festival returns “better than ever” required more time than anticipated, leading to the decision to skip the 2026 calendar year for logistical reasons.
The inaugural Back Cove Festival, which took place on August 3, 2025, featured notable performances from artists such as Jack White and The Roots, drawing thousands to Payson Park. Following this success, organizers swiftly moved to negotiate a new three-year contract. However, during discussions, council members were informed in early October that delays in the approval process could jeopardize the festival’s 2026 edition, as many musicians were already planning their tours for the upcoming year.
A memo to the City Council indicated that despite significant efforts, organizers were unable to produce a festival in 2026. The memo stated, “Their ability to secure appropriate talent, vendors, staging, production, marketing materials, etc., was impacted by the delay.” It assured officials that organizers are committed to staging the festival in 2027.
During previous discussions surrounding the contract, councilors expressed concerns over various details, including the contract’s duration, potential impacts on the Back Cove neighborhood, and financial compensation to the city. Councilor Kate Sykes, who raised several questions about the agreement, highlighted the importance of protecting public spaces when private entities seek to utilize them.
“I understand there will be disappointment from some quarters about the festival not moving forward in 2026,” Sykes said. “Deliberation is a core part of democracy. Rushing through agreements that impact neighborhoods and public parks might be faster, but it risks eroding public trust.”
Concerns raised by Sykes also included transportation and noise issues that arose during the festival’s inaugural year. In contrast, Councilor Anna Bullett, whose district encompasses Payson Park, noted that feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive.
Many festival-goers reported a family-friendly atmosphere, despite the expected high prices for food and drinks at music festivals. Some neighbors enjoyed the music from their yards, commenting on the organization of the event.
The City Council approved the new contract in late October, which adjusted the city’s revenue from the festival. The fee per ticket rose from $1 in 2025 to $1.50 in 2026, with plans for further increases to $2 in 2027 and 2028. Additionally, organizers pledged to donate $100,000 annually to the Portland Parks Conservancy.
The contract also mandates that organizers hold two public meetings each year: one 60 days before the festival to discuss plans and gather community feedback, and a second within 90 days after the event to review outcomes and make improvements.
Next week, councilors are set to vote on an amended contract extending the agreement from 2026-2028 to 2027-2029, with an option for an additional three years. According to city officials, all other terms of the agreement will remain consistent, and they express confidence that the organizers will successfully produce a quality festival beginning in 2027.
