Above: the side stage at the 2026 Eagle River Jamboree
This past weekend, The Eagle River Jamboree descended upon Eagle County's fairgrounds August 8 & 9 with a stellar first line up that included both local and national touring artists. While everyone was hoping for a bit more attendees, (there were perhaps 1,500 in total), it was still a great, well organized event, and we hope it returns next year.
Although Wildfire Reviews only attended one day of the brand new festival, we were able to experience it full heartedly. It's always a challenge the first few years of any festival; even the major ones like Coachella and Lollapalooza suffered in the beginning. However, the festival included several stages and music was playing at nearly all hours of the day on Sunday, August 9 providing a full festival experience for concert goers.
There wasn't anything bad about the festival besides everyone hoping there would be more in attendance throughout the weekend. The sound at every stage sounded great, and the grandstand on the main stage even provided as many seating as possible for those who wanted to sit. A VIP area and lounge was worth spending the extra money for with a great dinner provided by Moe's in Leadville.
Photo by Leo Pareti
Sunday kicked off with Nashville 31 year old guitar prodigy Daniel Donato who played two impressive sets on the main stage. "We are just finishing up our 25 date tour run, so when they asked us if we wanted our last show at a rodeo, we said, yes," Daniel proclaimed happily despite appearing tired. There were of course many Daniel Donato and the Cosmic Country fans in the audience with many showing up early for his shows and even departing the festival after his two sets. The entire crowd was dancing heavily Sunday afternoon. Daniel's set included a superb cover of "Wild Horses".
Photo by Leo Pareti
Other highlights of the day included Colorado's own Graham Good who played two sets of his own on the side stage and in the VIP lounge.
Of course, the legendary slide guitarist Robert Randolph. Despite not playing his biggest hit song, 'Ain't Nothing Wrong With That', Robert Randolph & His Family band were still as good as ever and even played past their closing time. However, one of the best moments of the festival was when Daniel Donato joined Robert Randolph on stage later on the evening during Robert's set, which included an impressive version of "Foxy Lady.
Wildfire Reviews even had a chance to speak with festival promoter Allen, who appeared cheerful Sunday afternoon. "We hope to return next year with different dates and some other changes," Allen told us, however he seemed happy with how the festival went it's first year.
Festival promotor Allen:
Overall, The Eagle River Jamboree is a great new festival, and we hope it returns with some new changes for year two.
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Photos by Jessica Lewis:
Dragondeer:
Graham Good:
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