Check Out What's New At Summer Jam 2026
this weekend from June 19-20 at the Eau Claire Event District, ticket holders can access local happy hour specials, IV hydration, new VIP giveaways and more
Evelyn Nelson, photos by Ricci Wagner
Got your tickets? Whether you're grabbing two-day passes or leveling up to VIP, there’s still time to join in the fun at Summer Jam from June 19-20.
Beyond the complete music lineup for this weekend, there will be so much more waiting for the “jam fam” at the Eau Claire Event District (5775 20th Ave., Eau Claire) this weekend.
Now in its second year, Summer Jam is aiming to solidify itself as a regional annual staple. Organizers have curated acts from across the Midwest and beyond for a festival experience that “blends classic rock, pop favorites and summer nostalgia,” a recent media release stated.
Headlining acts including Third Eye Blind, Styx, Gin Blossoms, The Wallflowers, Bret Michaels, Blue Öyster Cult, among others, will bring well-known anthems and nostalgic melodies to the grounds located on the outskirts of the city.
This year, ticket holders can take advantage of new activities to stay energized and hydrated all weekend long, organizers say – without leaving the festival grounds. IV hydration, a newer offering popping up at festivals and summertime events across the country, will be provided by Platinum Cosmetics of Minnesota, available by booking in advance (or visiting their camper site for potential walk-up openings).
If you’re one of the many who scored VIP tickets to Summer Jam, new VIP experiences this summer include wine tastings with River Bend Winery & Distillery (10439 33rd Ave., Chippewa Falls) on both days of the festival, plus Brewology demos with Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company.
As always – beyond the local tastings and on-site vendors – happy hour specials will be up for grabs. In the early afternoon on both days, $5 options include Leinenkugel’s faves: Summer Shandy, Tropical Hazy IPA, Barrelman Ale and more.
This year, Summer Jam will also offer retired and active-duty veterans one free ticket each to the festival, plus a complimentary first round of beer or soda from Leinenkugel’s vendor sites.
According to festival organizers, more than 1,000 veterans have claimed their tickets already. A portion of the rest of the festivals' tickets ($35/person) will be donated toward the Chippewa Valley Veterans Tribute at River Prairie Park (Front Porch Place, Altoona).
A few more reminders for the weekend ahead: General parking is $20/day or $30 for 2 days and can only be purchased at the event. Summer Jam will operate as a cashless event; ticketholders can activate their festival wristband to link a credit card or load cash to it at fest stations.
To learn more about festival prep tips and tricks, visit the Summer Jam FAQ webpage online.
To purchase tickets for Summer Jam 2026 (July 19-20) at the Eau Claire Event District – 1-day general admission is $135/person – visit eauclaireeventdistrict.com. Keep up with additional promotions and giveaways online through the Summer Jam Facebook page (@summerjamwi).