CARBONDALE – The City of Carbondale is thrilled to announce the lineup for the 2025 Off the Rails Concert Series!
Bringing six free concerts from August through October, this collaborative series with Carbondale Main Street features an exciting mix of national acts and incredible local talent. Two of these evenings will coincide with larger events: the Hemp, Hops & Shrooms Festival and the SIU Homecoming/Carbondale Halloween Festival!
Aside from the SIU Homecoming/Carbondale Halloween Festival, which will take place on the strip, the Off the Rails series will be held at the Downtown Entertainment & Events Plaza on Washington Street, from 6–9 p.m. Due to the ongoing construction of the permanent venue within the Plaza, a portable stage will be set up on the south end of the parking lot, in the same location as during the 2024 Off the Rails series.
For the SIU Homecoming/Carbondale Halloween Festival, we’ll be shutting down the strip again! This year, we’re bringing a full festival experience to downtown Carbondale, featuring carnival games, food trucks, vendors, and two alternating stages with a robust lineup of performers.
“The City is incredibly excited for the 2025 Off the Rails Concert Series and the opportunity it brings for residents and visitors to witness the momentum happening downtown,” said City Manager Stan Reno. “Even as construction continues on our permanent stage, we’re inviting the community to see the progress firsthand and imagine the possibilities of the future. Collaborating with SIU again to transform the strip for Homecoming and Halloween highlights the energy and creativity that make Carbondale special. These events reflect our ongoing commitment to celebrating music, community, entertainment, and growth.”
With local vendors and a variety of food trucks on-site, the Off the Rails Concert Series provides a perfect, easy night out for families and friends, all conveniently located in the heart of Downtown Carbondale. Bring your own chair or blanket and BYOB to enjoy a beverage of your choice (no glass bottles) within our Downtown Entertainment District.
We have Nathan Graham, bass player for Lucas Wayne and the Cottonmouths, to thank for our 2025 Off the Rails announcement graphic, as well as a limited-edition commemorative poster that will be available for purchase at the concerts.
We thank our Title Sponsors, Wellness Center and Key Cannabis Dispensary, and Presenting Sponsor, F-W-S Countertops, for their support in bringing this series to our community.
If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, reach out to Matt Collinsworth, Executive Director of Carbondale Main Street, via email at director@carbondalemainstreet.com or by phone at 618-529-8040, or 606-356-7985 (cell). If you’re interested in vending at these events, click here.
Below, you’ll find detailed information about the shows, artists, and special events for the Off the Rails Concert Series:
Show Lineup:
8/9/25 – Funky Mojo Daddy & City of Soul
Funky Mojo Daddy: A soulful blues band from Northwest Indiana, Funky Mojo Daddy has been rocking the stage for nearly 20 years. With band members who have played with artists like Buddy Guy, Carl Weathersby, and the Kinsey Report, they bring a high-energy, authentic blues experience. Their fusion of funk, soul, and rock-roots offers an unforgettable musical journey.
City of Soul: Known for their dynamic mix of Soul, Funk, Rock, Oldies, and R&B, City of Soul delivers captivating performances that engage audiences with their diverse repertoire and energetic stage presence.
8/23/25 – Chicago Farmer & The Fieldnotes / Lucas Wayne & The Cottonmouths
Chicago Farmer & The Fieldnotes: Cody Diekhoff, better known as Chicago Farmer, is a working-class folk musician inspired by his small-town roots and John Prine. Known for his heartfelt lyrics and authentic storytelling, his music resonates with hard-working folks across the Midwest.
Lucas Wayne & The Cottonmouths: A storyteller at heart, Lucas Wayne sings about everyday characters and experiences from his Southern Illinois upbringing. Known for their dynamic performances, the band’s mix of vocal power, lead guitar/pedal-steel, and tight rhythm section leaves a lasting impression.
9/6/25 – 90’s Kidz & The Swamp Tigers
90’s Kidz: A high-energy band that brings the best of rock and pop from the ’90s. With an extensive repertoire of hits, the 90’s Kidz have quickly become one of the most sought-after acts in Southern Illinois, having shared the stage with top artists like Collective Soul and Ozzy Osbourne.
The Swamp Tigers: A throwback rockabilly and honky-tonk band from Southern Illinois, The Swamp Tigers have been a local favorite for over a decade. Known for their fresh energy and retro sound, the band’s rare appearances are always a treat.
9/20/25 – Hemp, Hops & Shrooms – Colt Ball & The Git Down / Sturg & Friends
Colt Ball & The Git Down: Blending reggae, folk, funk, and rock, this St. Louis-based band is known for its high-energy live performances and “feel-good” music. Their tours have taken them across the Midwest, performing at major festivals like Grateful Fest and Hillberry Music Festival.
Sturg & Friends: A Southern Illinois-based band with a vibrant mix of rock, reggae, funk, blues, and Americana, Sturg & Friends delivers a soulful musical experience that brings people together.
Hemp, Hops & Shrooms: A collaborative event featuring Carbondale Main Street, the City of Carbondale, and SIU’s Fermentation Science Institute and Cannabis Science Center. Attendees can enjoy food trucks, local vendors, and hands-on demos related to hemp, hops, and mushrooms.
10/3/25 – Brass Queens / Taylor Steele & The Love Preachers / SIU Family Weekend
Brass Queens: A female-led brass band from New York, Brass Queens blends the energy of New Orleans brass with the vibe of New York City. Their signature style has garnered them performances at major events like The Met Gala and Good Morning America.
Taylor Steele & The Love Preachers: A dynamic Americana band led by Taylor Steele, known for her heartfelt songwriting and strong stage presence. They blend roots rock with blues, country, and funk influences.
10/24/25 – SIU Homecoming/Carbondale Halloween Bash – Shutting Down the Strip!
This year’s SIU Homecoming will align with the Carbondale Halloween Bash for an even bigger celebration! The strip will be shut down for two stages of live music, food trucks, vendors, carnival games, and more! Expect a festive and family-friendly experience with plenty of entertainment and surprises.
