Location: Grande Cheese Center Stage

Event Details: A total of at least four qualifying bands will earn the opportunity to play a 15-minute set at Walleye Weekend. Each band will load in at 11 am on Sunday, June 8th (a drum kit without cymbals and sound production will be provided). Qualifying bands will be featured on partnering radio stations.

A winning band will be selected based on a pre-determined set of criteria at Walleye Weekend on Sunday, June 8th and that band will win a $500 cash prize and the Walleye Weekend 2025 “Breakout Band” trophy. The winning band will also have the opportunity to play on stage at Walleye Weekend 2026!

Sunday, June 8th: 11:30am – 2:30pm

Registration Information: CLICK HERE FOR APPLICATION/RULES

Application Process:
All entries must be received by close of business (Mike’s Music), Monday, May 12, 2025. Include the following along with the application

• Electronic Press Kit (or)
  • 2-3 recorded songs
  • 1 video link (optional)

Drop off in person at:

Mike’s Music & Sound (see website for hours of operation)
Address: 289 N. Main Street, Fond du Lac, WI 54935

Or

Email (form to): Info@mikesmusic.net

All entries must be received by Monday, May 12th. Bands will be selected through a vetting process that includes a combination of quality of music, choice of music, and energy. The top bands will play at Walleye Weekend 2025 on the Grande Cheese and 95.1 & 96.1 The Rock Center Stage, Sunday, June 8th between 11:30am and 2:30pm. You will have a maximum of 15 minutes to play and showcase your talents. Bands will be judged on quality of music, originality, appearance, improvisation, and interface with the audience. Please disclose any professional representation and connections to talent and/or management agencies, etc.

Qualifications:

• Set must include one original song
• No age restrictions
• All band members must be from the State of Wisconsin
• Must be available to play a 15-minute set at Walleye Weekend in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin on Sunday, June 8, 2025, between the times of 11:30am and 2:30pm.

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