What happens when you combine a vibrant, one-mile stretch of Downtown Appleton, Wisconsin, with 150+ up-and-coming artists performing live, FREE 100% original music over four days? You get to experience an unforgettable music-filled weekend with over 650 incredible shows! Mile of Music kicked off in 2013 as an original music festival highlighting handcrafted artistry. The theme quickly caught on with music lovers everywhere and is still the focus today as The Mile continues to make music accessible to everyone with nearly all shows FREE to attend. We welcome the finest talent, including singer-songwriters, combo and multi-piece bands showcasing original roots music ranging from indie rock and country to soul, R&B, jazz and folk. On top of that, we highlight homegrown talent and recruit the best emerging artists from all over the U.S. and even internationally. Along with providing plenty of opportunities to take in the music, attendees are encouraged to make music while they’re at The Mile, too! Our Music Education Team hosts dozens of hands-on music events like artist-led songwriting workshops and interactive drum circles. Mile of Music is a can’t-miss festival. With more than 85,000 people checking out The Mile last year alone, we’re cultivating something one-of-a-kind in the Fox Cities community and getting quite the response. Mile of Music isn’t quite like any other festival you’ve experienced before. Join us July 30-August 2, 2026, as 40 venues throughout Downtown Appleton play host to indoor and outdoor shows on stages of every size. Take time to explore the restaurants, shops, museums, bars and coffee shops along The Mile as there are fun stops at every turn!
