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"Country Rising" Festival to Debut in East Troy, WI

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/1 .. ry-rising-festival-to-debut-in-east-troy-wi.html
  Published in House and Home on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 6:30 GMT by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
      Locales: Wisconsin, Illinois, UNITED STATES

East Troy, Wisconsin - February 17th, 2026 - The Milwaukee area is poised to become a hotbed for a new wave of country music with the announcement of 'Country Rising,' a two-day festival set to debut at the iconic Alpine Valley Music Theater in East Troy, Wisconsin on June 7th and 8th, 2026. The festival isn't just another addition to the summer concert calendar; it represents a conscious effort to redefine the boundaries of the genre and appeal to a broader, more diverse audience. Leading the charge is BigXthaplug, the genre-bending artist quickly gaining notoriety for his innovative fusion of country and trap.

While Alpine Valley is well-known for hosting rock and jam bands, the selection of this venue signals a deliberate move to establish 'Country Rising' as a major player in the festival circuit, capable of accommodating large crowds and delivering a high-quality audio-visual experience. The choice also recognizes the growing accessibility and popularity of country music across different demographics.

BigXthaplug's inclusion as a headliner is particularly noteworthy. The artist, whose music seamlessly blends traditional country instrumentation with the rhythmic backbone of trap, is viewed by many as a trailblazer. He's garnered significant attention online, particularly on platforms like TikTok and Spotify, attracting a younger demographic who may not have traditionally gravitated towards country. This aligns perfectly with the festival's stated goal of expanding the genre's reach.

"We wanted to create a festival that reflected the evolving sound of country music," explains Sarah Miller, the festival organizer. "For too long, country has been perceived in a very narrow way. BigXthaplug embodies that perfectly - he's authentic, energetic, and bringing a whole new audience to the genre. He's not afraid to experiment, and that's what 'Country Rising' is all about."

But 'Country Rising' isn't solely focused on breaking new ground. The festival boasts a carefully curated lineup that also features established stars like Lainey Wilson, currently riding high on the charts with her critically acclaimed albums, and the gritty, authentic sound of Koe Wetzel. Charley Crockett, known for his neo-traditional approach and captivating stage presence, and the rising star Megan Moroney, with her blend of contemporary and classic country sounds, round out a roster designed to appeal to both seasoned country enthusiasts and newcomers. This combination is a strategic play to bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary country, ensuring there's something for everyone.

The festival's ambition extends beyond the music itself. Organizers are planning a comprehensive festival experience, including local food vendors showcasing Wisconsin's culinary scene, artisan crafts, and interactive art installations. Miller emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. "Country music is about storytelling and connecting with people," she says. "It's not about fitting into a specific box. 'Country Rising' is a celebration of that freedom. We want people to come, have fun, and discover something new, whether it's a new artist, a new style of music, or just a new appreciation for the power of storytelling."

The rise of artists like BigXthaplug signals a broader shift within the country music landscape. For years, the genre was largely dominated by a specific sound - a polished, radio-friendly version of traditional country. However, in recent years, artists have begun to experiment with different influences, incorporating elements of hip-hop, rock, and pop. This experimentation has been met with both praise and criticism, but it's undeniable that it's injecting new life into the genre. The success of artists like Lil Nas X, with his chart-topping hit "Old Town Road," paved the way for others to push the boundaries and challenge conventions.

'Country Rising' appears to be capitalizing on this momentum. By showcasing both established artists and emerging talents who are pushing the envelope, the festival aims to solidify Milwaukee and East Troy as a destination for fans seeking a more progressive and inclusive country music experience. The festival's organizers hope that 'Country Rising' will become an annual event, attracting fans from across the country and contributing to the vibrant cultural scene in southeastern Wisconsin.

Tickets for 'Country Rising' go on sale today, February 17th, 2026, at 10 a.m. CST exclusively through Ticketmaster.com. Given the anticipated demand and the unique nature of the festival, organizers are urging fans to purchase tickets promptly.