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Thumpasaurus w/ Kayla Williams & The Yacht Daddies & Purple City Disco – Winterruption YEG 2026 | Festival Guide (EN)

Overview

The Thumpasaurus w/ Kayla Williams & The Yacht Daddies & Purple City Disco – Winterruption YEG 2026 event is one of the most anticipated mid-winter celebrations in Edmonton, Canada. Set against the backdrop of Alberta’s crisp January air, this performance marks a vibrant chapter in the city’s ongoing Winterruption YEG festival series—an annual cultural gathering that blends music, art, and community spirit. The show will take place at The Starlite Room on January 23, 2026, promising an evening of funk, disco, and indie grooves that will keep the winter chill at bay.

Winterruption YEG has grown into a defining feature of Edmonton’s cultural calendar, uniting local residents and visitors alike around the shared joy of live performance. With Thumpasaurus headlining, joined by the dynamic Kayla Williams & The Yacht Daddies and the dance-floor-fueled energy of Purple City Disco, this concert captures the festival’s essence: warmth through rhythm, community through sound.

Highlights

The night’s lineup brings together three acts that embody different yet complementary musical energies. Thumpasaurus, known for their genre-blurring style that fuses funk, punk, and experimental pop, are celebrated for turning every live show into an unrestrained spectacle of sound and movement. Their performances often transcend simple musical boundaries, inviting audiences into a theatrical experience where humor, groove, and spontaneity reign supreme.

Kayla Williams & The Yacht Daddies add a smooth, soulful counterpoint with their retro-inspired sound. Their performances often channel the golden age of soft rock and yacht pop, blending lush harmonies with a polished stage presence. Together, they bring a sense of sophisticated nostalgia that complements Thumpasaurus’s unbridled energy.

Purple City Disco, an Edmonton-based collective, rounds out the bill with a local twist. Known for their DJ sets and community-driven dance events, they embody the city’s creative nightlife spirit. Expect shimmering disco beats, inclusive vibes, and plenty of sequins under The Starlite Room lights.

Beyond the music, Winterruption YEG’s broader programming typically includes comedy, visual art, and community gatherings across multiple venues. This show, however, stands as one of the festival’s flagship music events—an evening where international touring acts and homegrown talent meet in a shared groove.

Venue & Access

The Starlite Room, located in downtown Edmonton, is an iconic live music venue that has hosted countless legendary performances over the years. Its intimate capacity and vintage-meets-industrial design create a perfect setting for artists who thrive on audience connection. The acoustics are finely tuned for both full-band performances and DJ sets, making it an ideal space for a lineup that traverses funk, soul, and disco.

For attendees arriving from within Edmonton, The Starlite Room is easily accessible by public transit, with multiple bus routes and LRT stations nearby. The venue is situated close to Jasper Avenue, a main artery of downtown nightlife, offering proximity to restaurants, bars, and hotels. For those driving, limited street parking and nearby paid lots are available, though early arrival is advised due to event-day demand.

Visitors from outside the city can reach Edmonton via the Edmonton International Airport (YEG), approximately 30 minutes by car from downtown. Taxis, rideshare services, and airport shuttles operate regularly. Winter weather in January can be brisk, so dressing warmly for the commute is recommended—especially for those waiting in line outside the venue.

Accessibility is a key focus for The Starlite Room and the Winterruption YEG organizers. The venue provides accessible entryways and designated viewing areas. Attendees with specific accessibility needs are encouraged to contact the venue in advance for details.

Tickets & Price Range

Tickets for Thumpasaurus w/ Kayla Williams & The Yacht Daddies & Purple City Disco – Winterruption YEG 2026 are available exclusively through the official ticketing platform. While ticket prices vary depending on availability and potential early-bird or late-purchase options, fans are encouraged to secure admission early due to high demand for Winterruption events.

Tickets typically include general admission, with options for reserved seating or VIP upgrades depending on the event’s configuration. As always, prices and availability are subject to change, and additional handling or service fees may apply. Checking the official ticket portal ensures the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Past Lineups & Vibe

Winterruption YEG has earned its reputation as one of Edmonton’s most eclectic winter festivals, blending local artistry with touring acts that span genres from indie rock to hip-hop, electronic, and folk. In previous years, the festival’s lineup has featured a diverse array of performers who reflect the city’s inclusive and adventurous musical spirit. The event’s organizers consistently emphasize community connection, representation, and the celebration of creativity during one of the coldest months of the year.

The vibe at The Starlite Room during Winterruption is distinctly communal. Attendees often describe the atmosphere as both cozy and electric—crowds packed shoulder to shoulder, dancing freely while snow falls outside. The audience tends to be a mix of dedicated music fans, local creatives, and visitors seeking a unique Edmonton experience. The combination of professional production, local pride, and artistic experimentation makes each Winterruption show feel like a miniature festival in itself.

Thumpasaurus’s inclusion in the 2026 edition underscores the festival’s adventurous booking philosophy. Their genre-defying approach aligns perfectly with Winterruption’s ethos of breaking boundaries. Meanwhile, the addition of Kayla Williams & The Yacht Daddies and Purple City Disco ensures that the evening’s energy will flow seamlessly from live instrumentation to dance-floor grooves, creating a full-spectrum sonic experience.

The Winterruption brand itself has expanded across several Canadian cities, but Edmonton’s version retains a distinct local flavor. Its success lies not only in the music but also in the sense of belonging it fosters—a celebration of community resilience and creativity during the depths of winter.

Tips for First-time Visitors

If you’re attending Winterruption YEG or a show at The Starlite Room for the first time, a bit of planning can enhance your experience. Below are some practical and cultural tips to help you make the most of your night.

  • Dress for the weather: Edmonton winters can be extremely cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. Layered clothing, insulated footwear, and gloves are essential. Remember that coat check lines can be long, so arrive early.
  • Arrive early: Doors typically open well before showtime, and early arrival ensures better spots for viewing and dancing. The Starlite Room’s general admission floor can fill quickly for high-profile acts.
  • Explore nearby venues: Winterruption YEG events often take place across multiple downtown locations. Consider catching other performances or daytime programming to experience the festival’s full range.
  • Stay hydrated and nourished: While drinks are available at the venue, it’s wise to eat beforehand. Downtown Edmonton offers a wide array of restaurants—from cozy pubs to international cuisine—all within walking distance.
  • Respect the vibe: Winterruption emphasizes inclusivity and community. Be considerate of fellow attendees, follow venue guidelines, and support the artists and volunteers who make the festival possible.
  • Capture moments mindfully: While taking photos and short videos is common, remember that live shows are best enjoyed in the moment. Always respect artist policies on photography and recording.
  • Plan your ride home: Public transit runs regularly through downtown, but schedules may vary late at night. Check transit times in advance or arrange a rideshare pickup location to avoid waiting in the cold.

For those visiting from outside Edmonton, consider extending your stay to explore the city’s winter attractions. Ice skating at City Hall Plaza, visiting the Art Gallery of Alberta, or exploring Whyte Avenue’s eclectic shops can all round out your festival weekend. Edmonton’s winter charm lies in its ability to turn cold weather into a reason for celebration—and Winterruption is the perfect example of that spirit.

Useful Links

For detailed event updates, lineup confirmations, and ticketing options, always refer to the official sources. Following Winterruption YEG’s social channels and The Starlite Room’s announcements can also provide last-minute details such as door times, set schedules, and special guests.

Lineup, dates, and prices are subject to change. Please check the official sources for the latest information.

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