Country Fair Kickoff featuring Brett Kissel, Cooper Alan, and Morgan Klaiber on May 14, 2026 at the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair
Country Fair Kickoff featuring Brett Kissel, Cooper Alan, and Morgan Klaiber on May 14, 2026 at the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair

NEW for 2026: The Cloverdale Country Fair Kickoff & Concert

For the first time since 2008, the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair is kicking off one day early, on Thursday, May 14, 2026, giving fans exclusive early access to the country fair and a must-see live concert that sets the tone for the entire weekend.

The main event at the Country Fair Kickoff is a special Thursday night concert, headlined by country stars Brett Kissel and Cooper Alan!

Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair, Chris Buck Band playing at the Longhorn Saloon

Headliner: Brett Kissel | 9:45 pm

Brett Kissel, one of Canada’s most celebrated country artists, brings his chart-topping hits, fan-favourite anthems, and high-energy live show to the Country Fair Kickoff stage.

Known for his charismatic personality, dynamic stage presence, and unique musical style, Brett Kissel has soared to the top of the Canadian country music charts as one of the country’s most celebrated entertainers. With 23 CCMA Awards, 3 JUNO Awards, 2 Gold-certified albums, 14 Gold singles, 6 Platinum singles, and an impressive 20 Top 10 radio hits, including four Number Ones, his impact is undeniable.

Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair, Chris Buck Band playing at the Longhorn Saloon

Headliner: Cooper Alan | 8:00 pm

Cooper Alan, one of country music’s fastest-rising stars, delivers an electric performance that has been igniting crowds across North America.

With the heart of a showman and the hustle of a modern independent artist, Cooper Alan is bringing fearless creativity and unfiltered authenticity to country music. A native of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Alan has built a massive, self-made fanbase online with over 18 million followers and 750 million+ streams through heartfelt storytelling, clever humour, or outside-the-box genre mashups.

Also Featuring

Morgan Klaiber

Morgan Klaiber | 6:45 pm

With sharp wit, a dazzling smile, genuine cowgirl cred, and a voice that can belt out anything from Led Zeppelin to Dolly Parton, it’s no wonder Morgan’s brand has been so appealing to her ever-growing fan base.

DJ Jack Daniels
DJ JackDaniels | 6:00 pm & Between Sets

A Cloverdale Country Fair fan favourite, DJ Jack Daniels has been DJing for over 30 years, playing the classics to today’s top hits, keeping the dance floor going all night long. 

Get Your Country Fair Kickoff Concert Tickets!

Longhorn Saloon at the Cloverdale Rodeo

Concert Details 

Location: Longhorn Saloon (Cloverdale Agriplex on the Cloverdale Fairgrounds)

Concert tickets: $80 plus taxes & fees until May 13th, $90++ day of concert (includes general fair admission)

Lineup & Showtimes:

  • Brett Kissel: 9:45 – 11:00
  • Cooper Alan: 8:00 – 9:15
  • Morgan Klaiber: 6:45 – 7:30

Doors open: 6:00 & DJ Jack Daniels keeps the party going between sets

Pro tip: Arrive early to grab a bite at one of the many food trucks, pick up a beverage, and take in the shows, games, rides, and behind-the-scenes setup at the country fair before the show begins.

Appaloosa in the Longhorn Saloon 2025

About the Venue – The Longhorn Saloon

The Longhorn has been home to epic performances at the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair for over 30 years. Generations of music fans have been in attendance as big names such as George Canyon, Terri Clark, Washboard Union, Marty Stuart, Aaron Pritchett, Johnny Reid, and Gord Bamford have blown the roof off the Cloverdale Agriplex. Welcoming just 3,000 fans for each show, it’s big-concert energy with easy access to get up close and personal with your favourite artists.

For the ultimate Longhorn experience, gather up your posse and book one of six VIP suites. Learn more here:

Longhorn Saloon Tips & FAQs

Gear up for an unforgettable night at the Longhorn Saloon during the Cloverdale Rodeo with these tips and answers to frequently asked questions! From ticket information to the performance schedule and more, we’ve got you covered for an epic experience.
KICKOFF CONCERT TICKET PRICES

The Longhorn always sells out because, well, it’s just that good. So be sure to get your tickets in advance!

Single Tickets
Regular (Before May 14): $80++
Day of Concert* (May 14): $90++

VIP Suites – 10 Attendees (see inclusions)
Regular (Before May 14): $1,900++
Day of Concert* (May 14): $2,200++

*Limited capacity. Tip: get your tickets in advance!

*Ticket prices noted above do not include GST and service fees.

IMPORTANT: While the Longhorn is rocking late into the evening, the fairground gate closes at 10:00pm – please plan to arrive before 10:00 or you will not be permitted to enter the fairgrounds. No refunds are provided if you arrive after the gate closes.

HOW MANY TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE?
There are only 3000 tickets available for the Kickoff Concert, and they are expected to sell out well in advance. It may sound like a lot, but this is THE place to be on the May Long Weekend, so grab your tickets early.
DO I NEED A GATE TICKET TOO?
Unlike a regular night at the Longhorn, your Country Fair Kickoff Concert includes fairground admission, too. 

Your Ticket also gives you access to other fun attractions at the Country Fair! Lice music, shows, food trucks and so much more!

WHAT ARE THE HOURS?
Longhorn doors open at 6 pm. The show keeps going until after the last headliner takes a bow.

IMPORTANT: While the Longhorn is rocking late into the evening, the fairground gate closes at 10:00pm – please plan to arrive before 10:00 or you will not be permitted to enter the fairgrounds. No refunds are provided if you arrive after the gate closes.

DO YOU ACCEPT CASH?
No. We are going completely cashless this year for all ticketing and all bar sales. Some of the food trucks and exhibitors may still be accepting cash and the carnival games only take cash. We will have bank machines onsite.
WHERE CAN I EAT AT THE LONGHORN?
There will be food trucks ready to provide the perfect late-night fuel for your evening at the Longhorn Saloon.

Outside food and drinks are not permitted.

CAN I BUY DRINK TICKETS IN ADVANCE?
Pre-purchased drink tickets are not available this year, saving you the headache of leftover drink tickets. Enjoy your night without worrying about tickets going to waste! All purchases will be cashless. Tap-to-pay at the bar.

Food & Drinks at the Kickoff Concert

Food Truck with an order up on the pass

Food Trucks

And all that dancing is sure to work up an appetite. That’s when you’ll want to hit up the food trucks out front for some signature fair favourites. The lineup of options will be finalized closer to the event date, so stay tuned and follow us on social for the latest announcements.

Beer in plastic cups with blurred lights behind

Beverage Options

Brought to you by Molson-Coors, the Longhorn Saloon is serving ice-cold beverages to cool you down after working up a sweat on the dance floor. In addition to Molson-Coors beer brands, the bar will be serving wine, cider & coolers.

Tap at the Bar to pay. 

The Longhorn went cashless and now it’s gone ticketless. All sales are paid at time of purchase electronically. Card processing stations will be at every beverage station to help keep the lines flowing.

A Ferris Wheel at the Cloverdale Country Fair

Included with Your Concert Ticket

Concert tickets also include general admission to the Country Fair grounds from 4:00pm to close! Enjoy:

  • Live outdoor performances from bands, DJs, and entertainers
  • Classic carnival rides and midway games (ride tickets and games sold separately)
  • A delicious lineup of food trucks
  • Behind-the-scenes, pre-event experiences like the Bit-of-Bling warmup

Please note: A concert ticket includes general admission to the fairgrounds for the day.

If you are looking for the ultimate kickoff to the long weekend, this is it! Don’t miss out on an unforgettable night at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds. Thursday night belongs to Brett Kissel and Cooper Alan.

For those simply looking to enjoy a little extra Country Fair fun on Thursday night, general admission to the just the fairgrounds is available for $5 (plus taxes) for the kickoff night.

Get Your Country Fair Kickoff Concert Tickets!

Join the VIP Mailing List

Joining our VIP mailing list ensures you’ll be one of the first to discover what’s new, see which traditions are returning, and receive insider tips to help you make the most out of your trip to the Cloverdale Fairgrounds this May Long Weekend.

Complete the form below and we’ll deliver the details directly to your inbox along with exciting offers and contests.

 

Subscribe to the Rodeo VIP Newsletter

* indicates required