DC-based nonprofit, Rural Progress, and the Minnesota Songwriter Sanctuary present: The Backroads Tour MN 2026! Doors open at 1:00 for a full day of roots, Americana, country, folk, funk, and jam-band music featuring The Rolling River Revue (a "supergroup" of Minnesota River Valley locals), Cain & Co, MoonCats, Saltydog, Sparrow Smith, and GRAMMY-nominated Joe Troop, followed by a Gary West afterparty at 10:00.  From Minnesota River Valley hometown songs to North Dakota roots, Duluth funk, Southern blues-rock, Appalachian banjo, and classic country from a NASCAR-racing former Grand Ole Opry band member, this lineup brings road-tested musicianship and festival energy from start to finish.

Most of our events are free to attend, with a suggested donation to support ongoing concert programming and help us continue providing free and reduced-cost access to the Minnesota Songwriter Sanctuary’s professional recording studio. MSS is 100% volunteer run and led, so every penny of your contribution directly empowers local artists and ensures our community programs remain accessible to everyone.  If you enjoy our events, please consider making a 100% tax deductible donation at the link below.