Karate Camp is an independent music festival held just outside Winona, Minnesota at Briggs Outdoors. Started by members of the Winona music community—including host band Karate Chop, Silence—the festival began as a small experimental gathering and has grown into a storied weekend celebrating the relationships, creativity, and DIY spirit that keep the regional scene alive.

Each year, the lineup brings together musicians who move through the Midwest’s independent circuit—bands that share stages in small venues, basements and festivals across the region. Past camps have featured artists like the shackletons, Mae Simpson, purple funk metropolis and Sleeping Jesus—alongside dozens of other local and touring acts, creating a weekend where longtime collaborators reconnect and audiences discover bands they didn’t know they would love.

But Karate Camp is just as much about the time between the sets. The grounds fill with camping villages, lawn games and long conversations as people move between stages, food stands and merch tables. As the sun goes down, lights come on around the performers, stars appear over the cow pastures, and large bonfires become gathering points where stories are shared and new friendships begin.

At its core, Karate Camp celebrates the community built around the regional arts and music scene—a place to reconnect, discover new artists, and spend a few days outdoors together.

  • September 11-12, 2026

  • Briggs Outdoors

    27171 County Road 9

    Winona, MN 55987

  • Yes. Many Attendees camp on site and stay for the full weekend. It is a total vibe.

  • The festival grounds are open to all ages until 11PM on each day. Late evenings and overnight camping is 18+.

  • A screenshot/printout of your ticket and your photo ID!

  • No. Tickets are non-refundable and the event takes place rain or shine!

  • Yes. Food vendors including wood-fired pizza will be on site. And we will have Thesis Brewing Project beer!

  • Yes. BYOB is allowed in your campsite area. Thesis Brewing Project will be selling beer in the performance spaces.

  • Yes. Cash is recommended for food, drinks and merchandise.

  • The festival includes camping, lawn games, vendors and all sorts of loving reunion vibes! Wanna go look at the cows?

  • Depending on your carrier, it is spotty. Plan ahead! Enjoy the disconnection from the world.

  • No. Pets will have to stay safe at home for this one!

  • No. Weapons are strictly prohibited.