Mikey Pennington, center, takes the stage with his band Common Grounds during the inaugural Next Up Music Festival in Marysville last Saturday. Photo by Tyler Zepp

YUBA CITY, CA (MPG) - The “Next-Up Music Festival” is back and bigger than ever, returning on Saturday, Aug. 16, at a new location in downtown Yuba City. After a successful debut last summer in Marysville, the youth-driven music and arts showcase has shifted to Skip’s Open Mic Music Café at 787 Plumas St., transforming the venue into a two-stage experience with both indoor and outdoor performance areas.

Founded and organized by David Terrases and local touring musician Mikey Pennington, this year’s event features over 20 up-and-coming performers from across Northern California, creating a full day of live music, art, food and family-friendly entertainment. According to Terrases, the move from Marysville to the new private property setup at Skip’s allowed for a more enclosed and personal atmosphere.

“We brought in a new variety of different bands this year, with a couple more metal bands in the mix as well,” Terrases said, noting that both repeat and brand-new food and art vendors will be participating in this year’s festivities.

The 2025 lineup showcases a wide range of musical genres and acts including Common Grounds, Coldflame, Seaside Massacre, Boston Crooks, Trachea, Sergio Destroys, Caved In, Light the Way, Yunger, The Almanac, Addalemon, Beauty is Betrayal, Forbidden Archives, Outlaws in the Golden State, Crash Babes, Monty, Aris and Mikey Pennington himself.

Mikey Pennington, left, poses with an excited fan during the Next Up Music Festival in Marysville last weekend. Photo by Tyler Zepp

Performances will run from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m., with doors opening at noon and sets staggered between the two stages throughout the day. The festival is open to all ages, although organizers note that some performances may include explicit lyrics and encourage parental discretion.

In addition to the music, attendees can enjoy a wide selection of local food vendors, yard games and face painting. Festivalgoers will also find official merchandise tables set up by the performing bands, adding to the immersive experience.

This year’s alcohol service will be managed by Railhouse Pub & Grill from Gridley, allowing guests 21 and over to walk freely within the enclosed event area with their beverages in hand. Face painting will be available for all attendees at no charge, though tips are welcome, and lawn games will be scattered throughout the grounds for guests to enjoy between sets.

Tickets are currently on sale, with pre-sale admission priced at $15, and door tickets available for $20. Children under 18 can enter for just $5 at the door. Tickets can be purchased online at: https://nextupmusicfestival.ticketspice.com/next-up-music.

This year’s event is presented by a lineup of local sponsors, including Skip’s Open Mic Music Café, Railhouse Pub & Grill of Gridley, Full Nelson Athletics and Planned 2 Perfection Event Rentals.

As noted on the festival’s website, “The Next-Up Music Festival is more than just an event, it’s a movement to bring emerging artists, musicians and performers from surrounding areas into the heart of our growing city. As our community continues to expand and thrive, so does the need for a platform that nurtures and celebrates fresh talent.”

Festival organizers hope to continue growing the event in future years, keeping it rooted in youthful creativity, accessibility, and community-building through the arts. For artist previews, volunteer opportunities, or day-of information, follow the “Next-Up Music Festival” on social media or visit the official site.