The Wake the Giant Music Festival announced its seventh annual lineup, headlined by Flo Rida, for a September 12 show on Thunder Bay’s waterfront. [1]

The announcement matters because the festival draws tens of thousands of visitors, boosting tourism revenue and providing a platform for regional musicians to reach larger audiences. Local businesses anticipate a surge in sales, and the city expects heightened media exposure.

Organizers said the event is the seventh edition of the annual series, scheduled for September 12 on the city’s waterfront park. [1] The venue, a popular summer gathering spot, will accommodate multiple stages and food vendors, continuing the festival’s tradition of free outdoor concerts.

Flo Rida, the chart‑topping rapper known for hits such as “Low,” will serve as the headliner. His inclusion signals the festival’s aim to attract high‑profile international talent alongside homegrown acts. [1]

Beyond the headline, the lineup includes the Wallflowers, Plain White T’s, Sebastian Gaskin, Tia Wood, Shawnee Kish, and LOV, offering a blend of rock, indie and Indigenous‑focused performances. [2]

Sources differ on a few details. CBC’s report lists only Flo Rida as the headliner and implies the seventh edition occurs in 2024, while Exclaim said the same lineup for the 2026 edition and provided a fuller roster of performers. The higher‑trust CBC source said the edition number and date are correct, and the Exclaim article said it supplied the extended act list. [1][2]

Festival organizers said the program reflects a balance of national and local talent, aiming to create a diverse musical experience for attendees of all ages. [1]

Ticketing information has not been released, but the festival traditionally offers free general‑admission entry, with optional paid upgrades for VIP areas and backstage access. Attendees are encouraged to monitor the official website for updates.

The Wake the Giant Festival continues to grow as a staple of Thunder Bay’s summer culture, combining headline draws with opportunities for emerging artists to perform before larger crowds.

“Flo Rida will headline the seventh annual Wake the Giant festival.”

What this means: The festival’s expanded roster and high‑profile headliner suggest a strategic push to raise Thunder Bay’s profile as a music‑tourism destination, potentially increasing economic activity and offering local artists greater exposure on a national stage.