10th edition

New Blues Festival Assen

10th edition!

02 October 2027 - Doors open 18:30, starts at 19:00

On Saturday, October 3, 2026, we are celebrating the 10th edition of the New Blues Festival at De Bonte Wever!

The New Blues Festival is the place where blues enthusiasts come together for an evening full of great music, a relaxed atmosphere, and surprising discoveries. Each year we carefully assemble a line-up with artists from domestic and abroad — from new talents to established names.

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The line-up for this anniversary year consists of:

King King (UK)
Sean Webster Band (UK)
AJ Plug & Band (NL)
Blues Caravan 2026 (USAu002FFR)
The Black River Roots (NL)

Johan Derksen will take care of the presentation of the performances in his own distinctive way.

Besides music, you can enjoy delicious food, a good glass of whisky, or a special beer at our cozy catering square.

Indicate that you ‘interested’ or ‘participating’ in the Facebook event (click here), and you'll be the first to know about all updates and the line-up!

New Blues Festival Assen is a collaboration between the Blues Foundation Assen and De Bonte Wever, powered by D.I.A. Light, Sound & Image.

LINE-UP:


King King (UK)
Explosive Bluesrock with depth and power: King King combines classic influences with a contemporary, rich sound. With the Nimmo brothers as the driving force, there is a solid band that combines strong technical play with palpable intensity on stage.

Sean Webster Band (UK)
With his raw, lived-in voice and refined guitar work, Sean Webster brings a mix of blues, rock, and soul that hits straight away. An experienced live artist who effortlessly switches between subtle and intense with his band, making each performance personal.

AJ Plug & Band (NL)
AJ Plug brings roots music with character: from solid, gritty songs to intimate and vulnerable moments. Awarded with a Dutch Blues Award and praised for her own sound and strong songwriting, she captures her audience effortlessly while her band gives each song just the right impact.

Blues Caravan 2026 (USAu002FFR)
Three international top acts – Laura Chavez, Matthew Curry, and Elise Frank – share the stage in a dynamic live show full of variety. From powerful solo sets to a joint finale: Blues Caravan has guaranteed a fresh take on contemporary blues for twenty years.

The Black River Roots (NL)
This Dutch band brings an idiosyncratic mix of blues and Americana, with swampy grooves and striking guitar solos. Own work interspersed with surprising covers of, for example, Britney Spears or the Beatles. Forged into such a different guise, it seems like it comes straight from Tennessee, Mississippi, or Louisiana. Yes, it can…

Seating arrangement: Various standing and seating areas (not reservable).

Want to eat beforehand?

Want to enjoy the evening even more? Reserve a table at one of our restaurants and complete your night out! Making a reservation is easy by calling 0592 356000.

A la carte
Bistro Dapper
Thanks to its rugged interior and contemporary menu, Dapper is the place for a drink or dinner with honest, seasonal dishes.
Buffet Restaurant
Restaurant flinck
Is a hospitable place where you can enjoy an extensive dinner buffet, with a wide range of hot and cold dishes. The perfect start to a great festival evening.