Big Blues Bender has established itself as one of North America's premier blues festivals, combining world-class performances with an all-inclusive resort experience. Now in its 12th year, the 2026 edition unfolds September 10-13 at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, hosting 41 blues artists across five stages in a round-the-clock format.

The 2026 lineup represents a cross-generational celebration of blues. Headliners include Bonnie Raitt, a thirteen-time Grammy winner and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee making her first Big Blues Bender appearance, along with TajMo—the collaborative project of blues legends Taj Mahal and Keb' Mo'—and Grammy-nominated Kenny Wayne Shepherd. Other notable performers include Tab Benoit, Booker T. Jones, Ruthie Foster, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Bobby Rush, and Mike Zito, representing traditional blues, contemporary blues-rock, and modern interpretations of the genre.

What distinguishes Big Blues Bender from other festivals is its resort-based model. Package options range from signature rooms to one-bedroom villas, all including four nights of accommodation and full festival access across all five stages. For attendees seeking music-only participation, a four-day wristband option is available. Additional upgrades include VIP experiences, premium beverage packages, and the Big Daddy Baller upgrade for enhanced amenities.

For blues enthusiasts in their 20s seeking an immersive festival experience, Big Blues Bender offers an extended engagement with blues legends and emerging talent in a resort setting, eliminating the logistics of separate accommodations and allowing attendees to remain immersed in the festival atmosphere throughout the four-day run.