Waukesha to Host Inaugural GuitarTown Music Festival: A Celebration of Les Paul and Original Music
Waukesha, WI – May 5, 2026 – The spirit of innovation is returning to its roots. Sound Check Entertainment, in partnership with the City of Waukesha, is proud to announce the inaugural GuitarTown Music Festival, taking place on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from Noon until 8:00 p.m. at Cutler Park in downtown Waukesha.
This landmark event is made possible through the generous support of legendary industry pillars, including Gibson Guitars, the Les Paul Foundation, and the Chad Smith Foundation.
Additional sponsors include Murphy & Prachthauser, White House of Music, and the Waukesha Chamber of Commerce, with media support from Radio Milwaukee, MKE Lifestyle, and WMSE. Together, these sponsors are honoring the “Wizard of Waukesha” while fostering the next generation of musical talent.
The festival will feature a full day of live, original music from Wisconsin-based bands. All the bands write and perform their own music and uphold the high-voltage standards of modern guitar mastery and the enduring legacy of Les Paul’s innovation. A portion of the sponsorship proceeds will benefit after-school music programs in Wisconsin.
“We are setting the bar at a ‘Custom Shop’ level for this festival,” said event organizers. “With the backing of Gibson and the foundations of two musical icons—Les Paul and Chad Smith—we are creating an immersive experience that celebrates the ‘Gold Top’ history of this city while showcasing the future of the electric guitar.”
Festival Highlights Include:
• Live Original Music: A curated lineup of Wisconsin bands performing throughout the day, including The Spirit Shakers (Kenosha), Racing Pulses (Madison), Violet Wilder (Milwaukee), Valleykil (Eau Claire), The Last Bees (Waukesha), and Bellevue Suite (Milwaukee).
• Gibson guitar raffle: Those attending can enter to win a Les Paul Custom 70s model electric guitar, valued at $3999
• Vendor Village: Family-friendly exhibit will feature craft makers, music-themed vendors, and free musician resources.
• The Instrument Petting Zoo: A hands-on experience where fans of all ages can “get their hands on the fretboard” and discover their own rhythm.
• The Heritage Bus Tour: An opportunity to explore the iconic Waukesha sites where Les Paul’s legendary journey began.
• Exhibits & Local Eats: Studio-quality exhibits celebrating guitar history alongside food and beverage concessions managed by the City of Waukesha.
In the event of inclement weather, a rain date has been scheduled for Sunday, June 14, 2026.
Whether you are a lifelong “axeman” or a fan of world-class live music, the GuitarTown Music Festival invites you to set your tone to “legendary” this June. For more information, the full performance schedule, and event updates, please visit the official website at www.guitartownfest.com.
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