How a Walkable Mile in Appleton Became a National Original Music Festival

 

Four days. One (ish) mile. Hundreds of artists. Thousands of fans.

Mile of Music started in 2013 with a bold idea: bring 100% original music to life in a way audiences could discover, celebrate, and connect with artists.

It all began in 2013 when a few music (and community!) lovers saw a powerful spark in Downtown Appleton’s walkable College Avenue and imagined what could happen if that energy were filled with original songs, creative risk, and community excitement. The result was a handcrafted, cover-free festival where every performance had something new to say—and no ticket was required. We welcome the finest talent, including singer-songwriters, duos and multi-piece bands showcasing original roots music ranging from indie and folk-rock to soul, to folk, bluegrass and more! On top of that, we highlight homegrown talent and recruit the best emerging artists from all over the U.S.

Today, Mile of Music has grown into a signature experience drawing talent and fans from across the country and around the world. Over 200 emerging artists perform more than 700 live sets across 40+ venues—coffee shops, parks, bars, galleries, and public spaces—creating a music-filled journey that unfolds step by step down The Mile.

Along with providing plenty of opportunities to take in the music, attendees are encouraged to make music while they’re at The Mile, too! Our Music Education Team hosts dozens of hands-on music events like artist-led songwriting workshops and interactive drum circles.

A FESTIVAL BUILT ON ORIGINALITY

Original music matters. Every artist on the lineup performs their own work—no covers, no substitutes, no compromise. That commitment creates a space where discovery is constant, and every stage offers something new.

COMMUNITY AT ITS HEART

Mile of Music is more than a festival—it’s a community celebration. Appleton’s vibrant downtown becomes the stage where local businesses, volunteers, residents, and visitors come together for something special.

Music is everywhere:

  • inside concert venues and outdoor stages
  • in coffee shops, bars and restaurants
  • through workshops, interactive sessions, and music-making experiences

From Roots to Reputation

Over more than a decade, Mile of Music has cultivated a reputation for fresh discoveries, community joy, and artist-first hospitality. Musicians repeatedly tell us they return because the festival feels like a creative home: a place to connect, grow, and share music with people who truly care.

Each year’s lineup brings together artists from diverse backgrounds and genres—folk, indie rock, soul, blues, country, bluesgrass, R&B, and more—ensuring there’s always something new to discover.

“A great thing about this festival is everyone comes for the same reason – a common love for music. When you go to a show, it doesn’t feel like you’re walking into a crowd of strangers. It’s more like a crowd of new friends.”
Scott Peeples - Music Fan

The Mile Today

Returning for its 13th festival in 2026, Mile of Music is a can’t-miss festival. With more than 90,000 people checking out The Mile in 2025 alone, we’re cultivating something one-of-a-kind in the Fox Cities community that’s drawing national attention. The 13th Mile of Music is scheduled for July 30-August 2, 2026.