Noah Kahan‘s Out of the Blue Festival: A Recap of Music, Community, and Mexican Sunshine
Noah Kahan’s “Out of the Blue” festival, held recently at the Moon Palace Cancún in Mexico, proved to be more than just a music event; it was a curated experiance fostering a strong sense of community amongst fans and showcasing an array of talent. The 2026 edition saw the indie folk sensation swap his signature flannel for beachwear as he hosted a long weekend filled with captivating performances, unexpected collaborations, and sun-soaked memories.
The festival lineup boasted a diverse roster of artists,headlined by Kahan himself,alongside acclaimed acts such as Mumford & Sons,Role Model,and Caamp.beyond the main stage, attendees enjoyed pool parties, surprise guest appearances, and a vibrant atmosphere that permeated the entire resort. The event wasn’t simply about witnessing performances, but about shared experiences and forging connections within the dedicated fanbase Kahan has cultivated.
“Best weekend of my life,” kahan expressed, reflecting the overwhelmingly positive sentiment shared by attendees and highlighting the profound impact of the event. This sentiment underscores Kahan’s dedication to creating meaningful connections with his audience.
Standout moments from the festival included Marcus Mumford unexpectedly joining Role Model’s set as “Sally,” a playful and memorable collaboration that quickly became a highlight for many. Kahan also participated in a spirited golf invitational and a lighthearted beach soccer game with fans, demonstrating his genuine engagement with the festival-goers.
The festival culminated in a special closing performance dubbed “Kahan and Friends,” featuring a captivating setlist that spanned a variety of influences. Kahan and collaborators delivered covers of iconic songs by Radiohead, The Band, Oasis, Sufjan Stevens, and MJ Lenderman, amongst others. A complete setlist of this unique performance is available for review,providing a glimpse into the collaborative spirit of the event.
100x Hospitality CEO and Co-founder,Dan Berkowitz,encapsulated the essence of the festival: ”What happened this weekend wasn’t just a festival.It was something Noah and his team built with intention, and a community that showed up for the music and each other.” This intentionality focused on creating an immersive experience where fans felt deeply connected to the music and to one another.
The success of “Out of the Blue” signals a burgeoning trend of artist-led destination festivals, with similar events planned by Brandi Carlile, Dave Matthews, Goose, and Empire of the Sun.For those inspired by Kahan’s festival and seeking further insight into his artistry, his recent cover story provides an in-depth exploration of his creative process and musical journey.
