Bill Litzau & Open Highway Band

Bill Litzau & Open Highway is an Outlaw Country Band and more.  Bill is a singer songwriter from Plato, MN. Along with playing original music the band also covers music from Waylon, Merle, Cash, Hank, CDB, Stapleton, Jinks, and many more.  Bill has played in front of thousands of people at Winstock, twice with his former band Blurred Vision, and many other large events.  He was also a finalist for Tumbleweed Music Festival's Fan Vote in 2018.

The Stand Ups

The Stand Ups are a high-energy rock band, known for their dynamic stage presence, tight musicianship, and a setlist packed with crowd-pleasing favorites and deep cuts alike. Blending classic rock roots with modern edge, the band delivers powerful performances that bridge generations of music lovers.

Whether they’re riffing through ‘70s rock anthems, diving into ‘90s alt-rock nostalgia, or surprising audiences with reimagined takes on unexpected covers, The Stand Ups bring a level of authenticity and fun that turns every gig into a party. Their chemistry on stage reflects years of playing together, and their shared passion for live music comes through in every note.

From packed bar gigs and summer festivals to private events and local music showcases, The Stand Ups have earned a reputation as one of Minnesota’s most entertaining and versatile live acts. With a loyal local following and a setlist that refuses to sit still, this is a band that knows how to keep the crowd on its feet—and coming back for more.

Little Chicago

Little Chicago is a horn cover band for hits of the 1960s and 1970s, based in New Prague, Minnesota. The band purposely plays about 10 gigs per year, mostly spring to fall, and has been performing in the Twin Cities since 1999.

The horn band plays pop/rock music. It features hits by such famous groups as Chicago, Blood, Sweat & Tears, The Grass Roots, the Union Gap, the Bee Gees, The Dave Clark Five, Dusty Springfield, and more.

Becky Rae Dalton Band

Minneapolis singer/songwriter Becky Rae Dalton has gracefully emerged onto the Twin Cities music scene connecting with audiences through her powerful vocals, catchy lyrics, and authentic performances. After 16 years of writing and performing music, Becky Rae finishes a three year journey of creating her debut album Ready or Not. The indie/folk/country album is available on iTunes and Amazon.

Ready or Not brings you on a journey of truth, forgiveness, and love.  “Love Him All The Same” begins the album in a true country storytelling style that leads toward a beautiful acceptance. The upbeat, encouraging title track “Ready or Not”, awakens the inner child and energizes the soul while the combination of bluesy guitar and Becky Rae’s ethereal vocals, float you away on the eerie backwaters of “Sunny Day”.  The tempo picks up on “A Little Longer” leaving you energized with the whirlwind of a new love.  Finally, “Ol’ Mississippi” wistfully reminisces on letting that love go.  Becky Rae’s style can be likened to Lissie, Brandi Carlile, and Joni Mitchell. Ready or Not will leave you uplifted and ready for what life throws your way.

Bill Litzau & Open Highway Band

Bill Litzau & Open Highway is an Outlaw Country Band and more.  Bill is a singer songwriter from Plato, MN.  Along with playing original music the band also covers music from Waylon, Merle, Cash, Hank, CDB, Stapleton, Jinks, and many more.  Bill has played in front of thousands of people at Winstock, twice with his former band Blurred Vision, and many other large events.  He was also a finalist for Tumbleweed Music Festival's Fan Vote in 2018.

Bring the kids and come early for The Minnesota Raptor Center show from 11 to Noon!

The Everett Smithson Band

Members of this band have played with Stevie Ray Vaughan and Buddy Guy just to name a few.  Zydeco is a French Creole music genre that evolved in southwest Louisiana.  Zydeco at its finest! 

Smoke Screen

Shift This Fiddle Into Overdrive! Playing a Wide Variety of Rock & Country Music.

Smoke Screen is a lively band covering a rich blend of rock and country favorites across multiple decades. Though rooted in Southern rock, their repertoire spans everything from classic rock anthems to country-tinged hits—making their shows engaging and genre-spanning.

Originating from southern Minnesota (based around Le Center and Faribault), the group plays frequently at local bars, festivals, fairs, and community events across the region. Their “Shift this fiddle into overdrive!” tagline highlights their knack for blending electric guitar riffs with country flair.

Their live performances are noted for energetic covers—whether it’s Southern rock staples or popular country-rock crossovers—and their ability to get a crowd dancing or singing along is a signature trait.

The Stand Ups

The Stand Ups are a high-energy rock band, known for their dynamic stage presence, tight musicianship, and a setlist packed with crowd-pleasing favorites and deep cuts alike. Blending classic rock roots with modern edge, the band delivers powerful performances that bridge generations of music lovers.

Whether they’re riffing through ‘70s rock anthems, diving into ‘90s alt-rock nostalgia, or surprising audiences with reimagined takes on unexpected covers, The Stand Ups bring a level of authenticity and fun that turns every gig into a party. Their chemistry on stage reflects years of playing together, and their shared passion for live music comes through in every note.

From packed bar gigs and summer festivals to private events and local music showcases, The Stand Ups have earned a reputation as one of Minnesota’s most entertaining and versatile live acts. With a loyal local following and a setlist that refuses to sit still, this is a band that knows how to keep the crowd on its feet—and coming back for more.

MEA WEEKEND: Teddy Bear Band

Special MEA Weekend Event!

Come have lunch with the “Teddy Bear Band” and their Panda Mascot!
Playing from 11:00-11:45AM
And again at 1:00-1:45PM fun for the whole family!

The Teddy Bear Band is a long‑standing family-friendly music group based in Minneapolis, enchantingly entertaining children and families since 1985. Founded by early childhood educator Ron Gustafson and a handful of fellow dads, the group has grown into Minnesota’s go-to interactive music act for kids—performing more than 10,000 shows over nearly 40 years.

JustUs Band

JustUs is a lively six-piece ensemble hailing from the West Metro/Central Minnesota region, celebrated for their wide-reaching blend of classic rock, country, pop, and gospel influences. Known as one of Central Minnesota’s standout acts, they deliver dynamic and engaging performances that appeal to fans across musical preferences.

Their energetic shows include a mix of timeless favorites and contemporary tunes, with a setlist that might feature everything from classic rock anthems and country hits to modern pop tracks and gospel-flavored favorites. Part of their strength is crowd interaction—whether on stage at bars, community festivals, or Music-in-the-Park events, JustUs creates a welcoming, dance-friendly atmosphere that encourages audiences to join in the fun.

With a busy local gig schedule—filling midweek pub nights and summertime outdoor spots—they’ve earned a solid reputation as a reliable, entertaining live act. That blend of musical variety, stage charisma, and community presence makes JustUs a popular pick across Minnesota for both casual weekends and festival showcases.