Every famous musician was once a local indie artist with a big dream — and their success wouldn’t be possible if it wasn’t for the support of their community. As a creator, you can play a role in keeping your neighborhood’s music scene alive, and maybe even book the next big star.

Why is it important to support local music? Uplifting musicians in your area not only encourages artists to follow their goals, but it supports music education and keeps local businesses thriving.

Here, we highlight events that incorporate local artists and give them a space to perform for their community. We also offer you inspiration for how to promote local music.

1. Host an Open Mic

Open mic nights provide benefits for musicians and the local music venues that host them. This type of event also draws in a crowd because the artists participating will invite everyone they know to see them perform. Ambitious performers get to showcase their passion, and businesses enjoy an extra boost in revenue — it’s a win-win!

The Dallas Open Mic does a fantastic job with open mic events. Local musicians are invited to sign up every week. Then performers are chosen based on the order on the sign-up list. Some artists even get the chance to perform extended sets — so they’re encouraged to bring their A-game.

2. Hold a Battle of the Bands

A battle of the bands event is another awesome way to support local music. Rock Paper Scissors Custom Events hosted a battle of the bands that featured rocking bands — and even more rocking judges (we’re talking Drew Angus from American Idol). Of course, you don’t have to go out and find a star to judge your battle of the bands. Tap into your social network and get in touch with a few local celebrities or social media influencers to see if they’re available.

The Rock Paper Scissors event was extra special because 50% of all ticket sales went to Meals on Wheels. So, attendees got to support local bands and give back to their community. Partnering with a local charity not only benefits your community but also broadens your reach since the organization you partner with can help advertise your event.

3. Invite Local Bands to Open for Touring Acts

Every budding performer’s dream is to open for a big artist. You can make this dream a reality if you’re a concert promoter. One way you can find local talent is to get active on social media. For starters, you can join music-related Facebook groups and scope out musicians. Instagram’s geotagging is another way to find local artists. Hashtags also help you narrow your search and connect with bands and performers in your area.

Once you have a list of dazzling musicians, keep them on hand when a touring act needs an opener. This gives the local artists a chance for increased exposure.

4. Have a Themed Musical Festival

A music festival is an obvious way to support your local scene. And depending on where you live, you may want to dedicate the event to one specific genre.

Los Angeles based Nacho Corrupted Presents catered their ROOFTOP GIG music festival to local punk lovers and featured bands from this genre. They also expanded their reach by making it an all-ages show.

5. Host a Local Music Series

Even if your venue regularly hosts prominent musicians, there’s always room on the calendar to spotlight local performers. Soul’s Dining and Entertainment has a local band, Sound Proof Jazz Band, perform monthly at their Jazz Night at Soul’s series. Similarly, their NEO Soul Fridays series invites up-and-coming soul singers to grace the stage every third Friday.

These types of events generate more community interest in your venue, and can also be offered at a lower price-point to get attendees through the door during the week. Having a solid schedule of events can also create loyal fans.

6. Add Music to Other Events

DJs are often the go-to for party entertainment and background ambiance. But they aren’t the only option for events. Instead, hire a musician from your area to provide live background music.

San Diego Food Markets, for example, hosts an outdoor Lane Field Park Market & Live Music event that features local food vendors and performers. Patrons can relax under umbrellas, enjoy San Diego’s best street food, sip craft coffee, and relish in the acoustic sounds of local musicians. Live music gives attendees a reason to linger and discover new music — and also gives artists more exposure.

7. Think Outside the (Music) Box

Wondering how a small business can support local music? Get a little creative. Mythology Distillery hosts a weekly concert featuring bands in the Denver area during their Live Music Sundays events. Some guests come for the spirits, and others come for the music, which adds up to more guests through the door.

The Washington-based improv club Everett Improv also hosts its own live music series. Wait…an improv club spotlighting musicians? Yup! Their Local Music Lovers Live Music event features sounds from indie bands and artists.

Keep the Music Going

All these events are perfect examples of how you as an event organizer can support local musicians and bring people together. Hosting music events in your area doesn’t just support your community, but also builds a stronger local economy.

If you’re ready to amplify your local music scene, host your event with Eventbrite.