This past weekend, Calabogie Motorsports Park transformed into one of the loudest, liveliest places in Ontario—not from engines, but from electric guitars, powerful vocals, and a sea of excited fans. The inaugural Guitars & Gasoline Music Festival brought thousands to the track, many for the very first time, and it was nothing short of epic.
From the moment the gates opened Friday afternoon, the energy was unstoppable. Blue Rodeo launched their 40th anniversary celebration under a golden sunset, headlining an unforgettable first night with powerful sets from The Trews and Owen Riegling. Saturday turned up the heat with dynamic performances from Alexa Goldie, The Headstones, and Theory of a Deadman, all setting the stage for an electrifying headline set by Josh Ross. With top-tier sound production and dazzling lighting, the track morphed into a full-scale concert arena that rivaled any major venue.
What truly set this festival apart was the sense of community behind the curtain. It took a small army of staff, vendors, and hundreds of passionate volunteers to bring this event to life. Thanks to their tireless efforts, from managing logistics and parking to guest services and stage support, everything ran with motorsport-level precision.
The festival grounds pulsed not just with music, but with the scent of mouthwatering eats. Attendees were spoiled for choice with gourmet burgers, artisanal food trucks, and icy beverages that kept spirits high all weekend long. Every bite and sip was the perfect accompaniment to the soundtrack of summer.
And let’s not forget the heart of Guitars & Gasoline: the campers. Families and friends set up for the weekend, filling the grounds with laughter, lawn chairs, and late-night jam sessions. Kids danced under the stars, parents kicked back with a cold drink, and the overall vibe was refreshingly inclusive. It was a true festival village, safe, welcoming, and buzzing with joy, making this event a standout in the music scene for its rare blend of high-octane fun and down-home comfort.
For many, this was their first time seeing Calabogie in this light, not just a motorsports mecca, but a cultural destination. Guitars & Gasoline proved this track has horsepower far beyond racing. We’re already counting down to next year.
Until then, rock on, Calabogie.
