Get ready to rock out and hop around at Rock the Hops 2026, where music, art, and craft beer collide in a vibrant celebration of regional creativity. Set against the rolling brick streets, towering limestone bluffs, and scenic Mississippi River views of historic Downtown Alton, IL, this award-winning festival returns on Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 2–8 PM.
Part original music fest, part art crawl, and part craft beer experience, Rock the Hops transforms multiple venues throughout downtown into a dynamic showcase of local talent. This year’s event features 28 bands, artists and makers, and more than 30 styles of craft beer. Since its inception, the festival has highlighted over 200 original musical acts, 800+ musicians, and 100+ artists from across the region.
With paid admission, attendees receive a commemorative tasting glass, access to craft beverage samplings at participating venues, and complimentary shuttle service for easy exploring. Rock the Hops is your all-access pass to discover the music, art, and flavors that define the region’s creative culture.
2026 Musical Performances:
Sisser, Ish Ensemble, Doug Raffety & Finn, Amber Skies, Candylion, Fritz and Chadwick, Lo Stone, Blinded by Stereo, A Portrait Life, Rec Riddles, Zantigo!, Todd Keith, Tape History, Neighboring Villages, Surtsey, Katie Hubbard Band, Joe Hicks Group, Tyler Laird and Friends, Erin Jo & Mila, Lauren Waters, Riley Hirsey, Superfun Yeah Yeah Rocketship, Rock Crown, BC Homegrown, Glass Mattress, JOEL, Les Pesky Belles, and Jace Snyder.
2026 Craft Beer and Beverages:
Schlafly, Old Bakery, Narrow Gauge, 4 Hands, Left on Red Meadery, Carbliss, Urban Chestnut, Good News Brewing, Herbarium Sparkling Herbal Tea, Pinckey Bend Distillery, and MORE!
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