Spring Fling – “Blues Harmonica Blowout”
Get ready for an unforgettable night of blues at the Wisconsin Blues Music Hall of Fame’s Spring Fling – Blues Harmonica Blowout! Join us on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Club Garibaldi in Milwaukee for an evening celebrating the power, passion, and soul of the blues harmonica.
This special event features an all-star lineup of harmonica masters:
- Big Al Dorn
- Benny Rickun
- Jay Edwards
-
“Blue” Rick Gerek
Plus, special backing by one of Wisconsin’s most respected blues guitarists, Paul Stilin, known for his smooth, expressive tone and deep command of traditional and modern blues styles, and an all-star band to be announced.
The evening will also include the induction of our 2026 Hall of Fame honorees, Kurt Koenig and Matt Liban, recognizing their outstanding contributions to blues music.
In addition to the music, guests can participate in a silent auction and a 50/50 raffle, with proceeds supporting the mission of the Wisconsin Blues Music Hall of Fame.
Event Details:
📍 Club Garibaldi
2501 S. Superior Street
Milwaukee, WI 53207
🕕 Doors Open: 6:00 PM
🎶 Show: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
🎟 $10 Donation at the Door
Come celebrate Wisconsin blues, support local musicians, and experience a night of harmonica-driven magic. We’ll see you there! 🎶
3rd Annual International Blues Day Celebrations – August 1, 2026
Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate the blues in all its soul-stirring glory at the 3rd Annual International Blues Day Celebrations on Saturday, August 1, 2026. This year’s festivities feature two dynamic events that bring together an incredible lineup of local and international talent for a vibrant celebration of music, community, and culture.
The celebration kicks off at 12:00 PM in the Cudahy Family Library Courtyard, where audiences can enjoy an afternoon of live music in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Bobby Sellers will be inducted into the Hall of Fame during the first set, so dont be late! Featured performers include:
Robert John
Big Al Dorn & The Blues Howlers
Stefan Hillesheim
Milwaukee Slim
Minoru Maruyama
At 3:30 PM, the party continues just down the road at Orson’s Saloon, where the music turns up and the evening comes alive. The second half of the celebration features these standout performances:
Gervis Myles Blues Band
The Wilson Family Band
Sheryl Youngblood & The Say Yes Blues Band
Plus! Marc and Tom Wilson will be inducted into the WI Blues Hall of Fame at 5 PM.
Sponsors: WMSE / Cudahy Family Library / All-American Talent / Orson's Saloon / The Eddie Taylor Foundation / Bella's Pizza / South Shore Cyclery / Cathy Lambeth/ Johnnie B. /
Don & Karen Bowen / Bob & Viv Dorn
Join us for a full day of rhythm, soul, and community as we celebrate the enduring power of the blues. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the genre, this is a can’t-miss summer event!