Hogs for the Cause has announced its music lineup for the 18th annual fundraising event on April 10 – 11, 2026. The headliners for the 2026 event at the UNO Lakefront Arena festival grounds include Stephen Wilson, Jr. and Charles Wesley Godwin.
With the current #1 album on iTunes Country, Stephen Wilson Jr. is redefining the genre with what he calls “Death Cab for Country.” “What audiences experience is more than music—it’s the most electrifying live set touring today,” said Becker Hall, co-founder and CEO of Hogs for the Cause. “A fusion of grunge grit and country soul, his shows are loud, emotional, and unforgettable.” Wilson Jr. keeps climbing, making late-night TV appearances and landing on nearly every “Best Of” list across the industry. He’s more than a rising star; he’s bringing a unique blend of country and rock that connects with his audiences on an emotional level. Charles Wesley Godwin first graced the Hogs stage in 2023—now he’s back to headline it. In just a short time, he’s quietly risen to become one of the biggest heavyweights in the independent country scene. Selling out venues nationwide and tearing it up on the road alongside Zach Bryan and others, Godwin has proven himself a force to be reckoned with. “What sets him apart is that deep, haunting Appalachian storytelling—songs that hit you right in the gut and linger long after the lights go down,” said Hall. “This isn’t just a performance; it’s an experience that cements his place among the most compelling voices in country music today.”
Other notable bands include The Castellows, three sisters from Georgia who are bringing the “Neo-Traditional” sound back in a big way, and Buffalo Traffic Jam, tearing up the charts and surging to superstar level.
Twenty artists will appear at this year’s festival, playing alongside more than 95 barbecue teams serving mouth-watering BBQ and vying for the title of Grand Champion. Two-day tickets are now available online at HogsFest.org. If available, single-day tickets will go on sale closer to the event.
“We are so excited to release this lineup of artists,” said Hall, “We have some incredible soul acts, next big thing blues, and the best in Southern rock. Hogs 2026 will be one for the ages!” More information on the acts performing is available on the website.
HOGS FOR THE CAUSE 2026 MUSIC LINEUP (as of December 9):
- Stephen Wilson Jr.
- Charles Wesley Godwin
- The Castellows
- Buffalo Traffic Jam
- Jason Scott and the High Heat
- Southern Avenue
- Jeremie Albino
- DK Harrell
- Marfa
- Lance Roark
- The Band Feel
- Bones of JR Jones
- Lamont Landers
- Robert Jon and The Wreck
- East Nash Grass
- The Band Loula
- Fust
- Root Beer Richie
- HollyRock
- Louisiana Surf Department
“This year, Hogs surpassed $15 million in nationwide pediatric cancer support, something that would never have been possible without the incredible support of our fundraising teams, sponsors, and event attendees,” said Rene Louapre, co-founder and COO of Hogs. “In addition to more than 2,300 direct financial gifts and Hogs Houses, partners with children’s hospitals nationwide to renovate and expand pediatric oncology units—creating more comfortable, family-centered spaces for treatment and recovery.”
The 2026 event sponsors include Manning Family Children’s, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Miller High Life, Irpino Avin Hawkins, Gulf Coast Bank, Phelps, and, new this year, NewAge Products.
