Canadian rock band Loverboy will no longer appear at Kitchener's Wayback Festival, organizers announced on July 7, 2026. The band cited scheduling conflicts as the reason for their withdrawal from the event, which is set to take place later this summer.
Festival Lineup Change
The Wayback Festival, a popular music event in Kitchener, Ontario, had listed Loverboy as a headliner. The band, known for hits like "Working for the Weekend" and "Turn Me Loose," was expected to draw large crowds. Organizers have not yet announced a replacement act, but they assured ticket holders that the festival will proceed as planned.
"We are disappointed that Loverboy can no longer join us, but we are working hard to secure a new headliner," a festival spokesperson said in a statement. "Refunds will be available for those who purchased tickets specifically to see Loverboy."
Background on Loverboy
Loverboy formed in Calgary, Alberta, in 1979 and became one of Canada's most successful rock bands of the 1980s. They have sold millions of albums worldwide and continue to tour. The band's cancellation comes as a blow to fans in the Kitchener area, who had been anticipating their performance.
According to local media, the festival has faced other challenges this year, including rising costs and logistical issues. However, organizers remain optimistic about the event's success.
Community Reaction
Fans expressed disappointment on social media, with some calling the cancellation a "major letdown." Others hoped for a quick replacement. "I was really looking forward to seeing Loverboy," said Kitchener resident Mike Thompson. "But I understand these things happen. I hope they can find another great band."
The Wayback Festival is scheduled for August 14-15, 2026, at Kitchener's Victoria Park. Other performers have not been affected by Loverboy's withdrawal.
