Michigan BluesFest started in 1994 under the name OctoberFest. Lansing’s alternative radio station, 92.1 WWDX, signed on as media sponsor, and MessageMakers became its founding business sponsor.

The festival featured such renowned artists as Kid Rock, Marcy Playground, Duncan Sheik, Nineteen Wheels and local showstoppers such as Powerface, Knee Deep Shag, The Lash, and The Weepers.

In 2002, the festival committee decided to transform the fall music festival into Old Town BluesFest and was pleased to announce 94.9 WMMQ as the new radio sponsor.

Michigan BluesFest will be held Fri, Sept 21st, 2018 and Sat, Sept 22, 2018 in the streets of Old Town, surrounded by the best of the Capital City’s art galleries as well as unique retail stores and grand architecture. Its stages will offer outstanding talent, from local favorites to regional and national acts, including many appearing for the first time in Lansing.

Join the roughly 7,000 people from across Michigan and nearby states who come for the music, but also the great food and craft vendors, expansive beverage tent, children’s activities and more!

BluesFest’s updated format has featured nationally recognized blues artists such as Junior Watson, David “Honeyboy” Edwards, W.C. Clark, Carl Weathersby, Sharrie Williams, Smokin’ Joe Kubek, Bnois King, Reverend Raven, Toni Lynn Washington, Byther Smith, Grana’ Louise, bugs Beddow band, Alberta Adams, A.C. Reid, Son Seals, plus popular performers from around the state such as Lady Sunshine and the X Band, Calvin Cooke and Sacred Steel Ensemble, Mojo Phoenix, Those Delta Rhythm Kings, Root Doctor, Doug Deming and the All Stars, JR Clark, and The Automatic Blues Band. (More detailed lists of past artists are available.)

Michigan BluesFest is THE place to listen and dance to the sounds of a powerful blues beat.