Brendan Bayliss and a Few of His Friends will host their annual holiday charity concert on Saturday, December 19, 2026, returning to Chicago’s iconic Park West. The evening marks a significant change for a long running seasonal staple. For more than two decades, the Umphrey’s McGee guitarist paired up with bandmate Jake Cinninger for these stripped down holiday shows, and this year’s benefit is the first since Cinninger left Umphrey’s McGee in July after twenty six years with the band. Bayliss is carrying the tradition forward with a deep group of all star guests.

Supporting a Local Cause

As in years past, one hundred percent of the proceeds from the concert will benefit The People’s Music School, which provides free music education to Chicago children and is the largest completely free music education program in the area. The show has a record of real impact. At the 2024 edition, the twenty second annual, a check for $16,000 was presented to the school at the start of the evening.

The 2026 Guest Roster

The lineup features a deep bench of jam scene musicians. Duane Trucks of Widespread Panic is on the list, along with Allie Kral, formerly of Yonder Mountain String Band, and Jennifer Hartswick of the Trey Anastasio Band. Jason Narducy, known for his work with Bob Mould and Superchunk, will also be there, as will Mike Racky and Pat Muldoon. Members of moe. are on the bill as well, though the specific players have not yet been named. Umphrey’s McGee percussionist Andy Farag, billed as Cousin Eli, rounds out the announced names.

The format has long blended stripped down Umphrey’s McGee songs with covers, holiday favorites, and plenty of special guests, and with so many collaborators on hand this year, the night promises to be as unpredictable as it is festive.

Tickets and Attendance

Tickets went on sale Friday, October 23, 2026, at 10 AM Central time and are available through AXS. The event is open to attendees ages 18 and over. Doors open ahead of the 8 PM performance.