Kai Luginbuhl – Associate and News editor

In its final issue of the fall semester, The Campus detailed the controversy in November 2025 over the possible cancellation of one of the university’s largest events. Since then, Winterfest’s 2026 Rail Jam has been confirmed, though its future beyond this year remains unclear.

Image courtesy of Vivienne Webster

This fall, the university administration raised concerns about the feasibility of the 2026 Rail Jam, citing strain on Bishop’s staff. Students and alumni pushed back after the report emerged, worried that the event could be cancelled permanently. Following negotiations between the Students’ Representative Council and the administration, an agreement was reached. Under the revised plan, the Rail Jam and concert will be held as a single continuous event, running from 6:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. In an email to the student body, Bishop’s principal Sébastien Lebel-Grenier said the change was intended to “reduce pressure on university resources.” The SRC and Bishop’s Admin reaching an agreement was a huge success for both the student body and the university. 

However, while there is much excitement about Winterfest being confirmed and around the corner, there is no deal between the SRC and the administration for the future of Rail Jam, or even Winterfest as a whole. It is of utmost importance for students to get tickets, show up, and have a great time to continue the success of the biggest event in the Bishop’s calendar. Most importantly, members of the SRC have also stressed the importance of good behaviour throughout the weekend. Following the events of homecoming 2025, the student body has faced scrutiny from many sources, with critics calling for the disbandment of Bishop’s University’s “party culture” entirely. It is critical to Winterfest’s future that all participants maintain a respectful, kind, and, most importantly, safe atmosphere.