Open Stage
From powerhouse vocals to bold performances and everything in between, karaoke, drag shows, and open mic nights are where Southern Illinois truly takes the stage. This page highlights the spots bringing the energy whether it’s a packed karaoke night, a drag show full of personality and flair, or an open mic where local talent shines. These events aren’t just entertainment; they’re creative, inclusive spaces where voices are heard, confidence is built, and community comes alive. Whether you’re performing or cheering from the crowd, this is your go-to guide for nights filled with expression, applause, and unforgettable moments across Southern Illinois.
Drag Shows
Karaoke
Comedy
Carbondale Halloween
Homecoming
Music Street Festival
10/24/25
3 PM - 10 PM
Join us on Carbondale’s iconic Strip for an unforgettable night of music, food, and fun! Two stages will showcase high-energy bands, turning the heart of the street into one massive concert venue. The festival atmosphere will spill across the Strip with local vendors, food trucks, carnival games, and even a rock-climbing wall.
Presented by: Hangar 9, City of Carbondale, SIU Alumni Association, Carbondale Main Street, Student Program Council, River Radio.
SAVAGE 2026: Astrophilia - Cosmic Couture Catwalk
February 21, 2026, 7:00 PM doors 8:00 PM show
Artists from the community are invited to create an ensemble for the runway, created from recycled or upcycled materials. The creativity that rocks the runway is jaw-dropping and inspiring!
Cedarhurst Center for the Arts
2600 Richview Road, Mount Vernon, IL 62864
Karaoke Night at Booby's
Thursdays, 8:30 PM sign-up 9:30 PM sing
Karaoke Night at Hangar 9
Tuesdays, 8:00 PM sign-up 9:00 PM sing
Karaoke is back at Hangar 9 — home to the biggest karaoke stage in Southern Illinois. The lights are up, the sound system is dialed in, and the stage is wide open for anyone ready to grab the mic. Whether you’re here to sing your heart out, hype up your friends, or just soak in the energy, this is karaoke on a scale you won’t find anywhere else in the region. Sign-ups start at 8:00 PM, with performances kicking off at 9:00 PM and going all night long. No cover, no tickets — just bring your ID and show up ready to sing. 18+ to enter, 21+ to drink.
511 S Illinois Ave, Carbondale, IL 62901
Marlon Wayans
March 7, 2026, 7 PM
This evening is for an adult audience. In partnership with River Radio- Marlon Wayans is an actor, producer, comedian, writer and film director. His films have grossed $1.14 billion in domestic box office and nearly $1.8 billion in global box office. As a stand-up comedian, he is selling out nationwide and adding shows every weekend.
800 Tower Square Plaza, Marion, IL 62959
A Night of Stand-Up with Pauly Shore
March 14, 2026, 7 PM
This is an 18 and above show. In Partnership with River Radio - Pauly Shore tasted super-stardom in 1990 when his MTV show “Totally Pauly” hit the airwaves to major fan approval. The show ran for six years, leading Pauly to a one-hour HBO comedy special, “Pauly Does Dallas,” and starring roles in films like “Jury Duty,” “In the Army Now,” “Bio-Dome,” “Encino Man,” “Son In Law,” and “A Goofy Movie.” Pauly went on to produce and star in several of his own projects, including “Pauly Shore is Dead,” as well as the comedy specials “Vegas is My Oyster,” on Showtime starring Andy Dick, Tom Green, Bobby Lee, and “Pauly-Tics,” on Showtime starring Herman Cain and Larry King.
800 Tower Square Plaza, Marion, IL 62959
An Evening with Larry the Cable Guy
March 20, 2026, 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Larry the Cable Guy is a multi platinum recording artist, Grammy nominee, Billboard award winner and one of the top comedians in the country. He has his own line of merchandise and continues to sell out theaters and arenas across the United States. Larry has created The Git-R-Done Foundation, which was named after Larry's signature catchphrase, and has donated more than $7 million to various charities.
777 Walkers Bluff Way, Carterville, IL 62918