Raquel Aleman (Beyonce tribute), Rocket Bureau (Weezer), Gridlock (Queens of the Stone Age), M Shays & the Earthlings (Bjork), members of Kitty Butler/Low Czars/Congregation (Wilco), The Earthlings (CCR)

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Adam Schabow

Elliott Gilfillan of The Earthlings, as John Fogerty.

Elliott Gilfillan of The Earthlings, as John Fogerty.

Local performers look forward to this nearly 20-year tradition as much as local patrons. That’s because bands assume alternative identities — often costumes and all — and immerse themselves in the world of, well, this: Creedence Clearwater Revival, as played by The Earthlings; Wilco, performed by by members of Kitty Butler, The Low Czars (including Isthmus calendar editor Bob Koch), and The Congregation; Bjork, by M Shays with The Earthings; Queens of the Stone Age, by Gridlock; Weezer, by Rocket Bureau; and capped off at midnight by Raquel Aleman (of Wild Violets and The Periodicals) as Beyonce. Audience members also take the stage for the costume contest at 11:45 p.m.

media release: Each autumn, as leaves turn to gold and the air grows crisp, Madison’s music lovers and Halloween fans prepare for one of the city’s most exhilarating annual celebrations. Freakin’ Halloweekend is now marking its 19th year! It’s much more than a concert—it’s a creative spectacle, a tribute to musical legends, and a joyous ode to the spirit of Halloween.

Over nearly two decades, the event has grown into a cherished local tradition, eagerly anticipated by musicians, fans, and newcomers alike.

The Move to Atwood Music Hall:  The shift to Atwood Music Hall is more than just a change of address; it’s a bold new chapter for Freakin’ Halloweekend. With its new state-of-the-art acoustics, sprawling dance floor, and atmospheric lighting, Atwood Music Hall provides the perfect backdrop for a night where music and mischief collide. The perfect haven for rock, costumes, and community, drawing together friends old and new.

The Line-Up

12:00 Beyonce - Performed by Raquel Aleman

11:45 Costume Contest

11:00 - Weezer – Performed by Rocket Bureau

10:00 Queens of the Stone Age – Performed by Gridlock

9:00 Bjork – Performed by M Shays and The Earthlings

8:00 Wilco – Performed by members of Kitty Butler, The Low Czars, and The Congregation

7:00 Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) – Performed by The Earthlings

The Costume Contest:  Creativity is celebrated and the spirit of community shines with our annual costume contest. This year, the excitement has reached new heights, with prizes exceeding $1,000— including a special $200 cash award for outstanding originality.

Sponsored prizes from the Silgman Team-Lauer Reality Group, B-Side, MadCity Music, WORT, Starkweather Tattoo Collective, Madison Mallards, Sooper Dooper, Madison Forward FC, Four Star Video, Massage East, Dank of America.

Doors open at 6pm/Show starts promptly at 7pm.

$15 ADV/DOS 

Whether you come as a rock icon, a ghoul, a superhero, or simply yourself, you’ll find yourself part of a tradition that celebrates the very best of the city’s artistic heart. Don’t miss your chance to experience one of Madison’s most beloved nights—a freakin’ good time awaits.