It seems we’ve fallen into a rhythm of putting one of these lists together every couple of months, so let’s roll October and November into this one!
Whenever people ask how to break into the local scene, my top suggestion is simple: come out to an open mic or open stage. These nights aren’t just for practicing your set in front of a crowd. They’re where connections are made. More than a few duos and full bands have found each other at these open events.
Even if you’re not looking to get up on stage, these evenings are still a fantastic way to discover new music, support local talent, and maybe even be able to say down the road, “I saw them before they blew up!”
If you notice something we missed or if details have changed, drop us a note through Facebook.
Here’s where you can discover the new talent or show off yours around town in October and November…
*PB often means there is sound available, but no drums or bass amps.
MONDAYS
Sullivan’s Daughter hosting at Beanhive Coffeehouse (Galesburg) 5-7pm
(AA) Every Week - This one is for songwriters.
East Bluff All-Stars hosting at Kickback on Fulton 7:30-10:30pm
(FB) Every Week
TUESDAYS
The Listening Room Mobile Open Mic (See more info below)
Emilele hosting at The Red Barn 8-11pm
(PB) Every Week
Old-Time Folk & Country Jam at Chillicathe Public Library 6-7:30pm
(AA) Next Up: 10/7, 11/4
WEDNESDAYS
Bluegrass Jam hosted by Mike Miller at Friendly Valley Tavern 7-10pm
(AA) Every Week
Stumpy Joe’s Free-For-All at Hideaway in Mackinaw 7-11pm
(FB) Every Week
Roy Ponce hosting at The Getaway (West Peoria) 7-10pm
(AA) Next Up: 10/8, 10/22, 11/5, 11/19
Erech Bruce hosting at Neon Bison 8pm
(PB) Next Up: 10/1, 10/15, 10/29, 11/12, 11/26
THURSDAYS
Sideline hosting at Oz’z Bar & Grill 7-11pm
(FB) Every Week
Primary Turkeez hosting at rotating locations 7-12am
(1st & 3rd W.E. Sullivan’s, 2nd Kickback on Fulton, 4th Pour Bros)
(FB) Every Week
Brent Lidwell hosting at The Nickel Plate (Farmington) 7:30pm
(PB) Next Up: 10/2, 10/16, 10/30, 11/13, 11/27
Open Mic at Office on Main (Morton) 8pm-12am
(AA) Every Week
FRIDAYS
Rotating hosts at Michael's Italian Feast - Germantown Hills 6-10pm
(AA) (1st & 5th Fridays) Next Up: 10/3, 10/31, 11/7
SATURDAYS
LIVE BAND KARAOKE at Tin Lizard at the Paradice Hotel & Casino - singers only
Full live band to back you up while you sing your favorite songs!
October 25, 2025 9om-12am
SUNDAYS
Banjo Jon Acoustic Open Stage at the PML Takeover at the 3300 Event Center (Weather Permitting)
(AA) October 19, 2025
Lonesome Jones hosting at Christy’s Place 3-6pm
(AA) Next Up: 10/5, 10/19, 11/2, 11/16, 11/30
Spontaneous Musical Combustion hosting at Country Saloon 4pm
(PB) Next Up: 10/12, 10/26, 11/9, 11/23
Roy Ponce hosting at Tartan Inn 7-11pm
(AA) Every Week
OPEN MICS TO KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR:
Garage Band Open Stage at Harmonize Peoria (FB)
Weekly on Tuesdays for 10 weeks, returning Jume 2026 - 5:30-7:30pm
This is an all-age open stage with full backline and many instruments for performers’ to use. Being under 21 gets you bumped to the top of the list!
Address: 1133 N North St in Peoria
The Listening Room Mobile Open Mic (AA)
Acoustic Open Mic, hosted by Sarah Marie Dillard. It is often on Tuesdays, but occasionally pops up other days of the week as well.
As the name suggests, locations vary. This is a uniquely intimate open mic that encourages active, supportive listening when artists are performing.
Join the Listening Room Facebook group to see dates/times/locations
Perdue’s Grill (AA)
Occasionally hold acoustic open mics here, usually on Wednesdays.
If you know of one we don’t, send a Facebook message or use out Contact Us page and we’ll get it added to the list!