Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa is proud to announce a new multi year partnership with Ottawa Bluesfest. This collaboration includes naming rights to one of the festival’s most iconic venues, now known as the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa Stage, formerly the River Stage. The announcement aligns with Bluesfest’s release of its 2026 lineup and the launch of special programming celebrating Ottawa’s milestone bicentennial anniversary.

Set along the banks of the Ottawa River in a scenic natural amphitheatre, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa Stage will continue to be a standout location for unforgettable performances in one of the most vibrant areas of the festival.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa is also now the Title Sponsor of the Platinum VIP area, situated in the main concert bowl. This premium lounge offers an elevated experience for guests who want something exceptional. It features a raised deck with both reserved tables and general admission options, creating an upgraded environment designed for comfort, connection, and iconic summer nights.

“Ottawa Bluesfest has built something truly special for this city, and we are excited to be part of it,” said Christine Crump, President, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa. “Music is infused in everything we do at Hard Rock and a collaboration with Bluesfest allows us both to energize our community, support local talent, and create lasting memorable experiences. This partnership is even more special as we are all keen to celebrate Ottawa’s remarkable milestone anniversary in a meaningful way.”

Festival leadership also shared enthusiasm for the expanded partnership.

“We are thrilled to welcome the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa team into the festival family,” said Mark Monahan, Executive and Artistic Director of Ottawa Bluesfest. “Their passion for live music, community and unforgettable guest experiences aligns perfectly with what we strive to deliver every July. Together, we are enhancing spaces that fans already love and helping create a festival experience that continues to grow with the city.”

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to the ongoing cultivation of Ottawa’s cultural and entertainment landscape. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa has built a world class entertainment destination, and this collaboration reinforces its dedication to the community and its ongoing support of local tourism and economic vibrancy.

Ottawa Bluesfest runs from July 9 to 19, 2026. More information is available at ottawabluesfest.ca.

About Hard Rock®

(HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in over 74 countries spanning 313 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Hotels, Casinos, Rock Shops®, Live Performance Venues and Cafes. Its Unity by Hard Rock™ global loyalty program rewards members for doing the things they love across participating properties around the world. HRI also launched a joint venture named Hard Rock Digital in 2020, an online sportsbook, retail sportsbook and internet gaming platform. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia at more than 89,000 pieces, which are displayed at its locations around the globe.

HRI became the first privately-owned gaming company designated a U.S. Best Managed Company by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal in 2021 and has since been honored fourfold. Hard Rock was also honored by Forbes among the World's Best Employers, as well as Best Employers for Women, Diversity and New Grads and a Top Large Employer in the Travel & Leisure, Gaming and Entertainment Industry. In the 2022 Global Gaming Awards, Hard Rock was named Land-Based Operator of the Year for the second time in four years.

Hard Rock International currently holds investment grades from primary investment-grade rating agencies: S&P Global Ratings (BBB-) and Fitch Ratings (BBB). For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrockottawa.com or shop.hardrock.com.

About Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa is a world-class entertainment destination in Canada’s capital, blending the iconic Hard Rock experience with the rich history of the Rideau Carleton Raceway. Originally opened in 1962 as Canada’s first-ever five-eighths mile harness racing oval, the site has been a staple in Ottawa’s gaming and entertainment community for over six decades.

Now fully transformed into Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, the $350 million resort features a 150-room hotel, including 22 suites, an expanded gaming floor with up to 1,500 slot machines, up to 40 live-action table games, and high-limit gaming. Guests can enjoy six unique dining options, including the iconic Hard Rock Cafe and Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, alongside three bars, the Rock Shop®, and Hard Rock Live — a 23,000 square foot, 1,900-seat performance venue hosting world-class concerts and events. Authentic music memorabilia, with a special focus on Canadian music legends, is showcased throughout the property.

As a proud member of the Ottawa community, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa employs over 1000 team members and continues a long-standing tradition of community investment through partnerships, sponsorships, and charitable initiatives. Since February 2000, the City of Ottawa has received over $115 million in payments from gaming revenues as a host community, contributing significantly to local programs and services.

Operated by Hard Rock International and governed by Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG). With OLG partnership, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa demonstrates a daily commitment to responsible gambling with full implementation of OLG’s PlaySmart program and is recognized through the RG Check accreditation program.

For more information on Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, visit casino.hardrock.com/ottawa