FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CARBONDALE -
The City of Carbondale is excited to announce the return of the Off the Rails Concert Series, bringing five unforgettable nights of free live music to downtown Carbondale from August through October 2026. For the first time in the series' history, our concerts will take place on the Robbie Stokes Memorial Stage at the New Era Events Plaza (200 S. Washington Street), marking a new era for one of Southern Illinois' favorite live music traditions.

Following the successful debut of the Robbie Stokes Memorial Stage during this summer's Sunset Concert Series, Off the Rails now has a permanent home in the heart of downtown. The series continues its mission of showcasing an eclectic mix of nationally touring artists, regional favorites, and emerging local talent while creating memorable community experiences that celebrate Carbondale's vibrant music culture.

"Off the Rails has always been about creating opportunities for people to experience incredible live music in the heart of downtown Carbondale," said Dena Haun, Tourism and Special Events Coordinator for the City of Carbondale. "This year feels especially meaningful as we bring the series onto the Robbie Stokes Memorial Stage for the very first time. Robbie dedicated so much of his life to supporting musicians and building Southern Illinois' music community. It's incredibly fitting that this stage will now host artists from across the country while continuing to shine a spotlight on the amazing talent we have right here at home."

The 2026 season kicks off with the CarbondAlien Music Festival, celebrating Southern Illinois' thriving local music scene before welcoming nationally recognized artists throughout the fall. All events are free, family-friendly, and open to the public. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy local food vendors while experiencing live music in downtown Carbondale. Public consumption of alcohol is permitted within the Downtown Entertainment District in accordance with City regulations. Guests may purchase beverages from participating establishments or bring their own in non-glass, single-serve containers.

2026 Off the Rails Concert Schedule:

Saturday, August 15 // CarbondAlien Music Festival // 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Features: The Hornworms, City of Soul, Tawl Paul & Slappin' Henry Blue, Tr!cks, Stay Here and the Southern Illinois Soul Jazz Coalition!

Saturday, August 29 // 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Features: Marcella Simien & Family Soul Band

Friday, September 4 // Lost Cross 40th Anniversary // 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Features: Didjits & Acumen

Saturday, September 19 // Hemp, Hops & Shrooms // 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Features: Hot Like Mars & MoonShroom with programming from the SIU Cannabis Science Center and the SIU Fermentation Science Institute

Friday, October 2 // SIU Family Weekend // 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Features: Kyle Tuttle Band & Special guest Chris Housman

Calling All Vendors!

Vendor applications are now open for the 2026 Off the Rails Concert Series. Food vendors, artisans, nonprofits, and community organizations are invited to participate throughout the season, including Hemp,Hops & Shrooms and the SIU Homecoming Music Street Festival.

Interested in becoming a vendor? Visit the application link for event dates, vendor fees, location details, and more. Questions can be directed to eseanti@carbondalemainstreet.com.

Location: Robbie Stokes Memorial Stage at New Era Events Plaza
Address: 200 S. Washington Street, Carbondale, IL

Save the Date: SIU Homecoming Music Street Festival // Friday October 16, 2026

Mark your calendars for Friday, October 16, as we once again shut down The Strip (Illinois Avenue) for the annual SIU Homecoming Music Street Festival. The celebration will feature two stages of live music, dozens of vendors, food, beverages, and activities as thousands of alumni, students, and community members gather for one of Southern Illinois's biggest weekends of the year.

The full entertainment lineup and festival details will be announced after the start of the fall semester.

For event updates and additional information, follow Carbondale IL Tourism on Facebook & VisitCdale on Instagram or visit ExploreCarbondale.com. For more information & media requests for this series, contact Dena Haun, Tourism and Events Coordinator, at (630) 903- 0930 or dhaun@carbondaletourism.org. 

“Carbondale prides itself on providing its visitors, students, businesses and residents with a unique mix of edge and ease. It’s a cultural town, yet free of pretense, embracing the great outdoors as readily as urban sophistication. Here, we are open to new ideas, experiences and cultures, so you are encouraged to both express yourself and be yourself, in all ways. That’s Carbondale…All Ways Open…for family, fun, business, new ideas and a bright tomorrow.”
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