Minneapolis Battle of the Jug Bands

A Wild, Washboard-Rattling Winter Music Showdown in Minneapolis

If you’re searching for a truly unique Twin Cities live music event this winter, the 2026 Minneapolis Battle of the Jug Bands needs to be on your calendar.

This annual Minneapolis music tradition brings together jug bands from across the region for one afternoon of acoustic mayhem, homemade instruments, and serious bragging rights. It’s quirky. It’s loud in the best way. And it’s exactly the kind of hyper-local event that makes the West Bank music scene so special.

Whether you’re a roots music fan, a casual concert-goer, or just looking for something different to do in Minneapolis in February, this is one of the most entertaining and affordable events of the season.

Event Details: Minneapolis Battle of the Jug Bands

Event Name: Minneapolis Battle of the Jug Bands
Date: Sunday, February 15, 2026
Time: 12:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Venue: The Cabooze
Address: 917 Cedar Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55404
Admission: $5 donation at the door
Ages: All ages (Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult)

For just five bucks at the door, you get nearly six and a half hours of live music in one of Minneapolis’ most iconic venues.

Additional Information: https://365twincities.com/BattleoftheJugBands2026

What Is a Jug Band, Exactly?

Jug bands are rooted in early American folk and blues traditions. The classic sound includes a mix of:

  • Jug (yes, an actual jug)

  • Washboard

  • Washtub bass

  • Kazoo

  • Harmonica

  • Banjo

  • Spoons

  • Saw

  • Other creative, homemade instruments

The result? A raw, acoustic, high-energy sound that feels both old-timey and totally alive.

The “battle” format keeps things moving fast. Bands rotate through short sets, bringing their best songs and most creative performances. A panel of judges ultimately decides who walks away with bragging rights and the coveted Waffle Iron trophy.

2026 Band Schedule Highlights

The 2026 lineup features a stacked roster of local jug bands competing in the Waffle League, including:

  • Sloppy Joe Jug Band Revival

  • Tom Wickerfields and the Dustbowl Daisies

  • Mother, Jug & Speed

  • The Last Minute Jugband

  • Captain Queso’s Cosmic Jug Band

  • Fat Chance Jug Band

  • Sliced Bread Jug Band

  • Amanda Standalone and Friends

  • Jug Monkeys

  • Eyes Up Here

  • The DoomGoats

  • Bread Menace and the Noodlers

  • West Bank Temperance League

  • The Jug Demons

  • Blue Drifters

  • 3 Good Samaritans

  • The Rambling Ragamuffins

Judging wraps up around 6:10 PM, so you can stick around to see who takes home the title.

Bonus: Jug Band Pre-Party

The fun actually kicks off the day before.

Jug Band Pre-Party
Saturday, February 14, 2026
3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Acadia Cafe, Minneapolis

This pre-party features rotating jam-style performances and gives fans a chance to warm up for the big Sunday showdown.

Why This Is One of the Most Unique Things to Do in Minneapolis This Winter

Minneapolis has major touring acts and arena concerts all year long. But events like the Minneapolis Battle of the Jug Bands capture something more local and authentic.

You’re not just watching a show. You’re cheering for neighborhood musicians, supporting community radio, and celebrating a style of music that thrives on creativity over perfection.

It’s:

  • Affordable

  • All ages

  • High energy

  • Deeply local

  • Totally different from your typical winter activity

If you’re looking for family-friendly events in Minneapolis, a fun Sunday afternoon concert, or a hidden gem on the West Bank, this is it.

Tips for Attending

  • Bring cash for the $5 donation at the door.

  • Arrive early if you want a good spot near the stage.

  • Plan to stay awhile. The rotating sets make it easy to come and go.

  • Explore the West Bank area before or after the event for food and drinks.

Don’t Miss This Minneapolis Music Tradition

The 2026 Minneapolis Battle of the Jug Bands is one of those events that reminds you why the Twin Cities music scene is so special. It’s grassroots. It’s joyful. It’s just the right amount of chaotic.

Mark your calendar for Sunday, February 15, 2026, and head to The Cabooze for one of the most entertaining winter music events in Minneapolis.

If you love discovering unique things to do in the Twin Cities, this one belongs on your list.

Additional Information: https://365twincities.com/BattleoftheJugBands2026