Northeast Wisconsin high schoolers jam in 2026 ‘Rockonsin’ contest at Summerfest

MILWAUKEE (WLUK) — Four Northeast Wisconsin garage bands took to the Aurora Pavilion Stage at Summerfest Friday in hopes of winning the 2026 edition of ‘Rockonsin.’

The bands include:

• “Mania” composed of students from East De Pere High School
• “The Danios” composed of students from Mayville High School
• “The Doorknobs” composed of students from Sheboygan North High School and Étude High School
• “Krusher” composed of students from Campbellsport High School

The local bands and six others were the finalists selected from 54 middle and high schools across across Wisconsin for the 2026 contest.

All of them performed 20 minute showcases for an audience, including a trio of music industry panel judges. The bands were judged on technique, rhythm and vocals, primary beats, and synergy among other aspects.

Rockonsin announced “Krusher” won the grand prize Saturday night. Winning the contest nets the band a 12 hour recording session at Blast House Studios in Madison. The runner up band is “Candy Cigarette” from Oconomowoc High School, which wins a shorter 8 hour recording session at Blast House Studios.

The contest is in its 22nd year.