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Hodag Pick Off

WDEZ Hodag Pickoff!

Sunday, April 12th, 2026 
Dale’s Weston Lanes!

Your Big Break is Calling: Enter the 2026 WDEZ Hodag Pickoff!

Are you ready to take your music to the main stage? The legendary WDEZ Hodag Pickoff is back, and we’re looking for the absolute best country talent in the region to represent us at the Wisconsin State Country Band Contest during the world-famous Hodag Country Festival!

Whether you’re a powerhouse solo artist, a dynamic duo, or a full-throttle country band, this is the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.

Bigger Stakes. Bigger Payouts.

We’ve raised the stakes for 2026! We aren’t just looking for talent; we’re investing in it. This year features our biggest prize pool yet!

  • 1st Place: $1,200 CASH + The honor of representing WDEZ at the Hodag Country Festival to compete for the state title!
  • 2nd Place: $500 CASH
  • 3rd Place: $300 CASH

The Details

Mark your calendars and get your setlist ready. The road to the Hodag Country Festival goes through Dale’s Weston Lanes!

  • When: Sunday, April 12th
  • Where: Dale’s Weston Lanes, Weston, WI
  • Who: Solos, Duos, and Full Bands

This is more than just a contest—it’s a showcase. Perform in front of a live audience and prove you have what it takes to stand among the greats at one of the biggest country festivals in the nation.

View the Official Contest Rules

Apply now and send us your best publicity photo, bio and links to your socials!

Don’t let this chance pass you by. Registration is open now!

“This is the single biggest opportunity for local country acts to get noticed on a massive stage. If you’ve got the sound, we’ve got the platform.”

*Note: The determination of who will be performing at the Hodag pick-off will be that of the staff of WDEZ and Midwest Communications, all acts may not be chosen.*

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