Ingersoll music festival taking a pause

Ingersoll’s GoodForTheSoll music festival is taking a pause for 2026, citing the current financial climate, but may be back in the future. (GoodForTheSoll images)

Lee Griffi, Editor

A music festival that has brought the Town of Ingersoll to life the last two summers has been cancelled for 2026.

“This is one of the hardest messages we’ve had to share. After months of planning, conversations, and doing everything in our power to make it happen, we’ve made the tough decision to cancel the GoodForTheSoll Music Festival for 2026,” said organizer Jay Panaseiko.

He added the festival has always been more than just a show.

“It’s been a community. A feeling. A moment where we all stood together under the stars and celebrated love, music, and each other. But behind the scenes, there are a lot of moving parts that have to come together early.”

Those parts include volunteers for setup, show day, and teardown. Sound and lighting crews, beer tent teams, rentals, and production professionals also play a huge role, as has a financial commitment from sponsors.

“Unfortunately, we weren’t able to get the level of early commitment needed to move forward in a way that protects everyone involved. And that matters because if we move too late, people lose real opportunities and real income. Crews, vendors, and partners who rely on these dates deserve certainty, not risk,” added Panaseiko.

He also said the festival understands people’s priorities have changed in today’s financial world.

“We understand the reality right now. The economy is tough. Businesses are being careful. And we respect that completely. To all of our sponsors, past and present, thank you. You helped make the first two years something truly special. To those who were ready to stand with us again this year, we see you, and we are incredibly grateful.”

Panaseiko also singled out Ingersoll Mayor Brian Petrie for being on board since the idea for the festival was first floated in 2024.

“While disappointed that the concert will not happen this year, I’m extremely thankful to everyone who made the last two years such a successful celebration for our town,” said Petrie.

“When Jay came to my office with an idea, I never thought it would turn into the amazing event it did. He poured his heart and soul into the event. His passion was contagious, leading to many volunteers and sponsoring the event. It’s a shining example of what communities can do when they come together. I look forward to seeing what’s next, as I know the plan is for this to be a break and not the end.“

Panaseiko added he and everyone involved in the event are proud of what they built together in 2024 and 2025 and hinted at a comeback under the right conditions.

“For this to return, it needs to come back stronger, more sustainable, and in a format that can grow year after year. So, this isn’t goodbye. It’s a pause. A reset. A chance to rebuild something even better for 2027 and beyond. In the meantime, support local. Support each other. Lift up the businesses and people that make this town what it is. If we stick together, we’ll get through this and come back louder than ever.”

Panaseiko said he realized the decision isn’t an easy one for his supporters to hear but had to be made.

“We’re going to miss your rocking faces more than you know. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making the first two years unforgettable.”

The 2024 headline act was Helix, while the 2025 lineup was led by Sass Jordan.