Whenever someone asks me how to break into the Peoria music scene my answer is always the same. Head out to an open mic or open stage. I’ve seen so many people start at one of these one month and a couple months later they’re playing a set break for someone else, and soon after booking gigs on their own or joining a band.
Even if you’re not looking to get up on stage, these events are still a fantastic way to discover new music and support local talent!
If we overlooked anything or if a schedule changes, send us a quick Facebook message or email press@peoriamusiclive.com so we can adjust it.
Whether you want to see the talent or be the talent, here’s our Peoria Area open mic guide for October and November 2026.
*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)
Old-Time Folk & Country Jam at Chillicothe Public Library 6-7:30pm
(AA) Next Up: 10/6, 11/3
Emilele hosting at The Red Barn 8-11pm
(PB) Every Week
WEDNESDAYS
Bluegrass Jam hosted by Jon Howard at Jack’s Pizza Tavern 6-9pm
(AA) 2nd Wednesday Next Up: 10/14, 11/11
Bluegrass Jam hosted by Mike Miller at Kenny’s Westside 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) Every Week
THURSDAYS
Neumann Superhumann hosting at Rosati’s Pizza - North Pekin 6-9pm
(PB) Every Week
Primary Turkeez hosting at Kickback on Fulton - 7pm-12am
(FB) Every Week
Brent Lidwell hosting at The Nickel Plate (Farmington) 7:30pm
(PB ) Next Up: 10/1, 10/15, 10/29, 11/12
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, 3rd & 5th Fridays) Next Up: 10/2, 10/16, 10/30, 11/13
SATURDAYS
Special Anniversary Edition of
Spontaneous Musical Combustion at Country Saloon (East Peoria) 2pm
(FB) October 3rd
SUNDAYS
Peoria Rhythm Kings at Countyline Tap 2-5pm
(FB) Every Week
Lonesome Jones hosting at Christy’s Place 3-6pm
(AA) Next Up: 10/18, 11/15
Spontaneous Musical Combustion hosting at Country Saloon 4pm
(PB) Next Up: 10/11, 10/25, 11/8, 11/22
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 June 2027 - 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, use our Contact Us page, or submit it on the events page, and we’ll get it added to the list!