Country Thunder Saskatchewan takes place July 10-13, 2025.(Submitted photo/Country Thunder)

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Sask summer tradition

Country Thunder: More than just a legendary musical experience

Feb 19, 2025 | 3:18 PM

From the moment the gates open in Craven, SK to the last note of the final performance, the Country Thunder music festival experience goes beyond an incredible lineup of country music legends and rock stars. It’s become an iconic series with festivals across North America, but Saskatchewan is where it all started.

“It’s a hometown show for us,” said Megan Benoit, digital manger for Country Thunder. “Over three decades it’s built a legacy that really transcends generations. You have people whose parents went and grandparents went…and its become a tradition for a lot of families.”

Last year, the festival experimented with an ‘off-genre’ act when they brought in Nickelback, but Benoit said the response was incredible. People clearly loved it, so they’re trying something unique again this year.

“We’re bringing in Def Leppard to give the festival a bit of a rock edge again. You know that’s a band that has been performing together for so long and similar to the festival, they have a history. So, we’re really excited because of the direct support that we’ve put in front of them like Kip Moore and The Road Hammers,” she said. “They’re the perfect blend of rock and country.”

(Country Thunder/JJImages)

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Other headliners include Jason Aldean with support from Nate Smith, Tyler Hubbard who was with Florida Georgia Line before launching his solo career and Baily Zimmerman, who Benoit said is a hot ticket right now.

“We’ve seen his career trajectory take off like none other. We had him a few years ago during the 5 o’clock hour and now he is headliner status.”

Another name that’s garnering a lot of excitement is Sara Evans. Canadian talent includes Tim Hicks, James Barker Band, and Saskatchewan’s very own Jess Moskaluke. The full lineup can be found here.

It’s not just the music that keeps people coming back. Benoit said the camping culture is one of the most beloved parts of the festival.

“I always recommend, if you’ve never been to the festival, you have to at least try camping one of the years that you come because, you know that camaraderie out there is its own community and it makes the festival experience so special.”

(Country Thunder)

Benoit said Country Thunder is one of the very few festivals anywhere that has real flushable washrooms on site.

“You know we do have portable washrooms as well, but on our Main Street, we’ve got real washrooms, which sounds so silly to brag about, but it’s a big deal,” Benoit laughed. “You don’t know how luxurious it is until you don’t have it, so that’s something we’re very proud of!”

Main Street at Country Thunder features several food trucks and vendors selling cowboy boots, hats and unique accessories. Festival goers can take a break from the music with a visit to the beer garden or the popular songwriter’s tent. Last year, they even offered country line-dancing lessons.

Country Thunder/Dale MacMillan)

Country Thunder offers ticket options that allow people to customize their festival experience. Platinum Circle and Gold Circle standing pits at the very front provide a great opportunity for anyone who wants to ‘high five’ the artists, take a selfie or get an autograph. And for those who want even more personalized experiences, the festival will be offering meet-and-greet opportunities with select artists. While these opportunities are typically announced closer to the event, Benoit said there will be chances to win some exclusive experiences through the festival’s social media channels.

“We want these to be one of those ‘money can’t buy’ experiences that just makes people’s time at the festival even more exciting.”

Whether you’re attending for the first time or returning to relive your favorite moments, there’s no better way to kick off the summer than with Country Thunder, July 10-13 2025 at Craven, SK.

Find updates on the event’s Facebook page, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.

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*This article was published by paNOW’s commercial content division.