07/29/2026
As we take a deep breath from another incredible WHATFest, our hearts are overflowing with gratitude.
To every patron who joined us, thank you for bringing your joy, acceptance, kindness, and incredible energy. You danced, laughed, connected, respected one another, and reminded us why we do this every year. Even through the summer heat, your enthusiasm never faded.
To our musicians, thank you for sharing your passion and talent. You created the soundtrack to an unforgettable weekend. The music was nothing short of extraordinary.
To our sponsors, thank you for believing in our vision and investing in our community. Your support makes this festival possible, and we are deeply grateful for your partnership.
A very special thank you goes out to our Green Room sponsors and organizers, whose generosity helped create an exceptional experience for our musicians, VIPs, and core crew members. From hospitality to comfort, to the small details that make a big difference, you helped ensure that everyone who passed through the Green Room felt valued and appreciated. Your contribution elevated the entire festival experience in a meaningful way, and we are so grateful for your partnership.
To our volunteers, crew members, and everyone who stepped in wherever needed, thank you. Whether your role was visible or behind the scenes, you gave your time, your talents, and your hearts. You continually went above and beyond, and WHATFest simply could not happen without you.
To our dedicated Board, who work selflessly throughout the year, thank you for the countless hours of planning, problem-solving, dreaming, and hard work throughout the year. Your commitment to this festival and our community is truly inspiring.
We also want to recognize the weather. After the much-needed rain on Wednesday and Thursday that settled the dust and refreshed the land, we were fortunate to have dry weather for the festival itself. While Friday and Saturday brought intense summer heat, everyone embraced it with smiles and made the most of an amazing weekend together.
Unfortunately due to the weather, we also want to recognize our incredible First Aid team. This year, the only incidents we experienced were related to dehydration and heat exhaustion due to the extreme summer temperatures. Even though we had ample amounts of cold water available, it quickly became clear that additional support was needed, and our team immediately stepped up without hesitation. They worked together seamlessly, quickly organizing a trip into town to secure electrolytes, Gatorade, and additional supplies to ensure the safety and well-being of both our patrons and performers. They were prepared, calm under pressure, and willing to act swiftly and selflessly and made a real difference throughout the weekend, and we are deeply grateful for their dedication and care.
Finally, there are no words that can fully express our gratitude to Roger and Sondra Buaru. Your generosity in sharing your beautiful land and your unwavering faith in WHATFest, our volunteers, our artists, and our patrons continue to amaze us. Because of your trust, thousands of memories have been made in a place that feels like pure Wyoming magic.
One of the greatest compliments we can receive is how we leave the land. Thanks to every single person who attended, the festival grounds were left remarkably clean and pristine. Your respect for this incredible property ensures it can continue to be enjoyed for generations to come, and that means the world to us.
Thank you for making WHATFest 2026 one of connection, music, community, and heart!
We’ll see you all again in 2027! And as always, “WHATFest, it’s WHAT you make of it!” ❤️
📸: Joshua Noel Wood
