28 Mile Distilling Company introduces Rock the Rails
From the founder of Celebrate Highwood’s ever popular Nashwood and Great Highwood Pumpkin Fest comes 28 Mile Distilling’s Rock the Rails. This first-of-its-kind music showcase celebrates the connection between independent artists and independent venues along the Metra rail line from Chicago to Kenosha, bringing audiences intimate performances and exclusive artist access. Located just steps from the Highwood train station, 28 Mile will feature talent from across the country, from rising artists on the verge of breaking out to nationally recognized performers like Jimmie Allen, Mims, Bubba Sparxxx and Michael Winslow. The inaugural Rock the Rails Music Series kicks off June 12 and runs 8 p.m. every Friday night through the end of summer, with shows ending before the last train departs.
The concept of Rock the Rails is built around original artists, authentic performances, and songs that connect audiences. 28 Mile Distilling Co. will serve as a first stop “along the rails” for artists on larger tours craving intimacy along the way that larger venues just don’t provide. From country and rock to hip-hop and high-energy entertainment, every Friday night will deliver a one-of-a-kind experience just steps from the Metra line at 28 Mile Distilling Co., 454 Sheridan Road, Highwood.
“As life continues to evolve, many of our patrons talk about missing true connections to music and artists, like it used to be,” said Eric Falberg, co-owner of 28 Mile Distillery and founder of Rock the Rails. “I want to get back to basics in truly supporting original nationally touring artists while delivering the intimate performances music lovers crave by connecting fans and other smaller venues to musicians along the way.”
Below is the full summer Friday Night 2026 Rock the Rails schedule:
• June 12: Rising country artist and gifted storyteller Kelly Daniels brings his blue-collar authenticity to 28 Mile.
• June 19: Making waves from Cincinnati to Nashville, Blake Tyler is a former college athlete turned country artist with over 250,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.
• July 10: Chase-N-Tyler, a dynamic country-duo brings a grunge “in your face” type performance to enthrall any listener.
• July 17: Traditional country singer and songwriter Alex Key writes all his own songs and drives his own tour bus to bring his classic country sound (heavy on pedal steel and fiddles).
• July 24: Rapper MIMS, best known for his chart topper “This is why I’m Hot” joins the Rock the Rails line up with a special with bourbon launch.
• July 31: Country double bill Kendal Tucker and Carson Lee bring their love of all genres into their country vibe.
• Aug. 7: Rapper Bubba Sparxxx, known for his chart-topping singles “Ugly” and “Ms. New Booty,” brings critically acclaimed sound to the 28 Mile stage.
• Aug. 14: Michael Winslow, godfather of Beatbox and famous for his roles in Cheech and Chong, “Spaceballs,” and “Police Academy,” brings a show of comedy and music to the stage.
• Aug. 21: Country Music Association’s New Artist of the Year in 2021, Jimmie Allen’s genre bending performance honors country’s storytelling while leaning into today’s pop-forward energy.
• Aug. 28: Country/southern rock darling Erin Stroll brings her authentic storytelling and electrifying stage presence to Highwood, as the last stop on the summer Rock the Rails tour.
In addition to Rock the Rails Fridays, 28 Mile Distilling is also pleased to announce:
• Dead Wednesdays: Celebrate the music of the Grateful Dead every Wednesday with talented local and touring musicians keeping the spirit alive with all-you-can-eat pizza from 7-10 p.m.
• Bluegrass Sundays: Every Sunday from 4-7 p.m., kick back with world-class bluegrass musicians’ family style with an afternoon of authentic Americana music with all-you-can-eat pizza and salad bar.
• Rooftop Sundays with Mr. Blotto: Beginning at 4:20 p.m., spend Sunday evenings on the rooftop with one of Chicagoland's most beloved jam bands and unbeatable summer vibes.
Stay updated on the full artist lineup and event schedule at 28miledistilling.com. Follow 28 Mile Distilling on Facebook and Instagram @28MileDistilling.