You’ve almost made it, Lawrence! The finish line is in sight! We’re SO CLOSE to rounding out another spectacular year of live music in the greatest music town on the planet. I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to really lean into the holidays this year. Bring on the holly jolly escapades! You’ve earned it! Here’s a glimpse at some shows you can hit up as you spring towards the end of the year (and be sure to check out “other events to keep on your radar” at the bottom).
Queens of Country
Lucia | December 5
Yeehaw! It wouldn’t be the giving season in Lawrence without a slew of fundraising shows. Up first is Queens of Country, at Lucia. Last year’s inaugural event was a fantastic showcase of queen-fronted music from the local roots scene delivering nods to queens of country (Loretta, Dolly, and more!). The ALS fundraiser is back this year with performances from Betsy O. & the Hollaback Boys, along with local drag performer Kansas Campbell.
RIYL: Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline
Arkansauce
The Bottleneck | December 12
It’s ok, winter isn’t for everyone. We know that. Some of y’all are still dreaming of camping out at Winfield or plucking away at FidPick. Don’t worry, The Bottleneck has you covered. For those of you longing for the summer bluegrass vibes, Arkansauce will be coming to the Bottleneck this month. A fan favorite at Kaw River Roots Fest, they’ll be hitting up the downtown venue with Moonshroom for all your folk fans.
RIYL: Unfit Wives, Replay patio shows, throwing one back at Kaw River Roots Fest
Holiday Spectacular with The Dead Bettys
The Bottleneck | December 13
By far, one of the most exciting experiences to come out of the music scene this year is The Dead Bettys. The local, many-membered ska band is a happiness factory. Combining originals with covers of pop favorites, their status as one of Lawrence’s favorite bands of 2025 is well-deserved.
It all started last year with their explosive holiday fundraiser at The Bottleneck. This year, they’re back at the holiday merriment again with a fundraising concert for Just Food. You can expect a lot of glitz, glamor, and dancing at this show. No need for a sitter, this one is all ages.
RIYL: Like, A LOT of holiday décor with your ska
Willow Rose’s “Country for the Kids”
Lucia | December 13
This is an event we look forward to every year. Local country crooner Ryan Manuel started this concert toy drive as a way to honor his niece, whom he lost to childhood cancer. Now in its eighth year, it’s still going strong and moving locations to Lucia’s Snowed Inn (this is where Lucia decorates the venue like a giant snow globe, it’s a MUST-SEE). They’ll be collecting new, unwrapped toys to give to Children’s Mercy to provide gifts to families who aren’t able to leave the hospital. Ryan Manuel, Exit 13, Chad Vaugh, and Louie White are all set to play.
RIYL: Wholesome holiday goodness with a little bit of country music sprinkled in
Mic the Mains / Oxford Remedy / Acne Prone
The Replay | December 19
Indie rock is alive and well in Lawrence. If you’re looking to get away from all the holiday fuss, head to the Replay for this killer indie lineup with a tinge of retro vibes (think 90’s). Mic the Mains headlines, with guitar wizards Oxford Remedy and Acne Prone rounding out the bill. Bonus: this is an early show (6pm start time).
RIYL: Hum, My Bloody Valentine, Sunny Day Real Estate
Driftmas IV: Over Rivers, Through Woods
The Bottleneck | December 20
This one’s for you, metalheads! If you favor Krampus over St. Nick, head STRAIGHT to the Bottleneck the Saturday before Christmas for headbanger heaven. Doomlords Drifter are back for another metal-themed holiday show with a pretty stacked lineup. From speed metal to thrash trash, your noise cup will runneth over. They’ll be joined by Aprilmist, Sarkatha, and more.
RIYL: Wearing black t-shirts with fonts you can’t read
Other events to keep on your radar:
Vespers 2025
The Lied Center | December 4
Tree Frog
The Granada | December 6
80 Proof Alice
Lucia | December 6
True Lions with Justin Bloss and Gracie Hughes
Northside Social | December 6
American Aquarium
The Bottleneck | December 11
KPR Big Band Christmas
Liberty Hall | December 13
Hanukkah Rocks
The Granada | December 14
NYE Party with Split Lip Rayfield at the Bottleneck
The Bottleneck | December 31
This is the place where Nirvana & Green Day played in a small, standing-room-only shack. This is the place where Janelle Monae packed in her hometown crowd. George Clinton has funked up our streets and we “fought the power” with...
