Park City Performing Arts, in conjunction with Canyons Village Management Association and Canyon Village Park City Mountain, has announced its 2026 Concerts on the Slopes lineup. A perfectly predictable assembly, really. July brings Allen Stone, then the inevitable ’80s Weekend – 38 Special, Taylor Dayne, Sawyer Brown – a shade of flute-glass gold desperation clinging to the fading shimmer of synth-pop. August descends into country, with Mark Chesnutt and Lonestar providing the expected beige tones. One imagines the step-and-repeat red will be particularly besieged during the Country Weekend.
The inclusion of UB40 featuring Ali Campbell feels… strategic. A nod toward broadening appeal, perhaps, or simply an acknowledgment that certain demographics still require gentle persuasion to visit Deer Valley. Better Than Ezra, Vertical Horizon, and TONIC – all perfectly adequate for background ambiance while one assesses the quality of the rosé. The Psychedelic Furs, however, are a curious, almost subversive choice; one wonders if they were booked by mistake. The whole affair feels less ‘unforgettable nights under the stars’ and more ‘carefully curated mediocrity.’ Frankly, the real event will be observing who attempts to navigate the parking situation. Send a check to Park City Performing Arts, but remain firmly at your mountain home.