The hearts of locals and visitors from across the country are surely full, after a weekend spent under the dazzling sun for the 2026 iteration of Blue Ox Music Festival.

Tucked away in The Pines Music Park of Eau Claire from June 25-27, longtime attendees and fresh faces alike found themselves immersed in the region’s finest bluegrass melodies – complemented by a curated blend of country ballads, folk-inspired hymns and more.

"From the moment we set foot on the grounds, to the final tent being packed at camp, there was an energy of kindness, community and love for music that we felt all weekend long," Blue Ox organizers shared following the festival’s completion.

Blue Ox Music Festival boasted three days of music with a lin­eup of heavy hitters and enough guitar riffs to satisfy even the most dedicated bluegrass enthusiasts. Between the Main, Saloon and Backwoods stages, the Valley heard the best of Charley Crockett, Marcus King Band, Kurt Vile & The Violators, I’m With Her, Sierra Hull, Valerie June, Mdou Moctar among others.

"The last couple of years, I've really been going through it out here in the business," Crockett said to listeners during his Friday night performance. "It's staying out on the road and being here at a show as special as this one tonight, that makes it feel like it's all worth it. 

"That I've got a purpose," he continued.

The Valley’s local music fans saw familiar favorites return to the stage, such as the glittering vocals of Molly Brandt (Minneapolis, Minn.), the soulful harmonies of Hemma (Eau Claire), The Spine Stealers (Madison) and festival co-founders Pert Near Sandstone (Minneapolis, Minn.).

This all led up to a poignant, final festival appearance by the beloved Them Coulee Boys, following the ensemble's announcement to disband earlier this spring.

Locals outside of the festival grounds could catch all of the action and live entertainment, thanks to festival partners Converge Media of Eau Claire, which streamed all performances directly to radio.

With a dozen years of musical memories and an infinite horizon ahead, this recent chapter of Blue Ox Music Festival proved to be among the most radiant celebrations to date.

Check out Blue Ox Music Festival online via social media (@blueoxmusicfestival) or its website to recap the 2026 event and stay informed on new festival announcements.