Strong winds forced the cancellation of the final night of the Fiesta de la Confluencia 2026 in Neuquén, Argentina on Sunday, February 8. The festival was halted mid-performance during a set by Tizishi as the weather impacted both the sound and lighting systems.
“Due to the adverse weather conditions and for safety reasons, the last night of the National Confluence Festival is canceled,” the Neuquén Municipality announced in an official statement.
The strong winds began after 8 p.m. Local time, during Tizishi’s performance, initially causing issues with the sound system and later affecting the lighting. While technical problems were temporarily resolved, strong gusts and blowing dust prompted officials to take preventative measures to ensure the safety of attendees, performers, and staff.
Luciana Ortiz Luna, the Secretary of Emergency and Risk Management, told Telefé that wind gusts were expected to reach 80 km/h (approximately 50 mph) and that some injuries had occurred due to flying debris from fences, and signs. Ortiz Luna explained that the primary concern was the potential for structures to collapse on people and that the event could not continue while the weather alert remained in effect.
“The safety of people is non-negotiable, and that’s why we understand some people are upset, but I’d rather they be angry and go home safe and sound,” Ortiz Luna said regarding the cancellation of the festival.
La Joaqui Expresses Disappointment Over Festival Cancellation
La Joaqui shared her disappointment over the cancellation via an Instagram story. “I’m very sad, Neuquén, I really am. I really want to cry,” the artist said after the strong winds began.
“I was very excited to sing for you and I know many of you were waiting since early in the sun,” she added. The singer noted that the storm and winds were dangerous and prioritizing safety was key, urging attendees to leave the island quickly, “there is a lot of instability in the structures and with that a lot of risk.”
“I love you all very much, thank you for waiting until the last moment and again, my apologies,” she concluded.
Dillom’s Message Following Cancellation: “Save That Energy”
Dillom also reached out to fans via Instagram, expressing regret over the “bad luck” that led to the cancellation on Sunday, which would have been his second performance at the Fiesta de la Confluencia and fourth time performing in the city.
“Thank you to the people who were showing their support since early on and to those who always offer us their love here. I hope to see you all again soon,” he said.
He also shared a video of fans gathered outside the hotel on Avenida Argentina, hoping to connect with the artist, saying: “I love you all, Neuquén, save that energy for next time.”
