DAVENPORT, IOWA (August 27, 2026) — The Mississippi Valley Blues Society (MVBS) will present a line-up of outstanding Blues Artists at the 41st Anniversary Blues Festival — Friday, September 18, and Saturday, September 19, at beautiful LeClaire Park on the Davenport Riverfront.
“We’re excited to return to historic LeClaire Park”, said MVBS President, John Resch.
“Two music stages, expanded BlueSkool, and additional vendors promise to make this year’s festival a great way to close out the summer season.”
The 41st Anniversary Festival begins Friday with a line-up on the Main Stage that includes headline act John Nemeth, 9PM, Reverend Raven and the Chain-Smoking Altar Boys with Westside Andy, 7PM, and German Blues Guitar sensation Stefan Hillesheim, 5PM.
Saturday’s line-up features the award-winning offsprings of three legendary Blues artists. Grammy Award-winner Shemekia Copeland, daughter of Johnny Copeland, will headline Saturday’s performance on the Main Stage, 8PM. Big Bill Morganfield, son of legendary Muddy Waters, will precede Copeland at 6PM, as will the Memphis Rhythm Revue, 4PM, and Shawn Holt (son of Magic Slim) and the Teardrops, 2PM.
Advance two-day tickets — $45, one-day ticket — Friday $20, Saturday $30.
Those under 25 are admitted FREE with ID!
The Pedigo Jones Stage will feature the Weary Ramblers on Friday and the Soul Searchers on Saturday between shows on the Main Stage.
The 41st Anniversary Festival will again feature BlueSkool youth clinics provided by Mississippi Valley Blues Society and West Music of Davenport. Workshops Saturday, September 19, will offer the opportunity to “listen” and “learn” from Dustin Arbuckle, 3PM, and from Big Bill Morganfield 4PM, followed by a BlueSkool Jam in the Merchandise/Education tent, 5PM. Bring your acoustic instrument!
Founded in 1984, MVBS is one of the nation’s longest-standing all-volunteer, non-profit Blues organizations. Its mission is to preserve and promote the uniquely American art form of Blues music through performance, education, and preservation.
For further information: mvbs.org or contact mvbs@mvbs.org.
