Drew Collister in 2023 at “Drewpalooza 1” at Dig’s in Marquette.
What started as a simple birthday party among friends has grown into a full-blown three-day music event with heart, purpose, and a whole lot of community spirit. Drew Collister, the founder of Drewpalooza, didn’t set out to create a festival—but that’s exactly what happened.
“The first year, it was just a birthday bash,” Drew recalls with a smile. “A few close friends, a couple acts, a DJ booth—and way too many logistics packed into a tight space. But it sparked something. I realized I wanted to do more. I wanted it to mean something.”
By the next year, Drewpalooza moved to Pine Grove in Republic, Michigan, where it found its rhythm and a new mission: raising funds for local causes close to Drew’s heart. In 2024, the event supported Do It For Daniel, a vital local nonprofit focused on mental health awareness [Editor’s note: Both Drew and I played football for founder Jeff Olson — he’s not only a Hall of Fame football coach but a great man and mentor]. This year, the cause is Ainlsey’s HALO, a pediatric cancer-focused organization that also funds scholarships in dance, hockey, and more, all in memory of a young girl whose spirit continues to inspire.
“Ainsley was only eight years old when she passed away,” Drew explains. “Her family created HALO—Help And Love Others—as a way to keep her legacy alive. They support the children’s hospital in Ann Arbor, help with scholarships… it’s just incredible what they do.”
That focus on heart has resonated with artists and attendees alike. “The number of people reaching out asking to be part of this year’s Drewpalooza blew me away,” he says. “Eighteen acts, three days, and for the first time, artists from outside the U.P.—including Wisconsin—are making the trip.”
And it’s not just the lineup that’s growing. Last year’s crowd packed Pine Grove to capacity by midday. “The Pine Grove crew were doing head counts and just looked at me like, ‘Yeah, you’re full,’” Drew laughs. “But the support has been amazing. People dancing, singing, nodding along… those moments are why I keep doing it.”
Drewpalooza 2 @ The Pine Grove in Republic.
Dr3wpalooza bands hit the stage at 6:30 tonight and 12:30 pm on Fri & Sat
So why Republic? Why Pine Grove?
“I played there before, and the staff is incredible,” he says. “They help with everything—security, 50/50 raffles, even shutting down the street if needed. They’re a big reason this works. I’m only 25, and the logistics of this are a beast. Having a team that supports the vision makes all the difference.”
Drew’s background in music—playing in projects like No Expectations and Stetson—helped him build a network that now fuels the lineup. “I’m always out catching shows, checking out who’s playing where, following Marquette Music Scene to see what’s going on. A lot of these connections came from just being part of the community.”
And that community feeling was on full display last year, when headliners Spun invited everyone who had played over the weekend to join them on stage. “It was this wild, spontaneous, We Are the World moment,” Drew says. “Everyone came together. I got choked up seeing it.”
Looking ahead, Drew has ideas for how to keep growing while staying true to the grassroots vibe. There’s talk of expanding across the street from Pine Grove, adding a tent or more outdoor space. Northern Lights Campground is already on board to help with overflow. There’s even a big announcement planned for next year—though Drew’s keeping that one close to the vest until the time is right.
When asked what spirit animal would represent the festival, Drew doesn’t hesitate long: “A lion. Not just because they’re powerful, but because they protect and care for their pride. That’s what this is about—coming together to help and love others. That’s what I try to live by.”
He’s quick to shout out those who’ve helped make it all happen: Globe Printing for last year’s sold-out merch and this year’s expanded run; local food trucks like The Island and others; backline and sound support from Spun; and the tireless crew at Pine Grove. “It takes a whole village,” Drew says, “and I’m lucky to have one.”
Bands hit the stage tonight (Thursday) at 6:30 PM, then again Friday and Saturday starting at 12:30 PM—with music running straight through until close each night. There’s no admission fee, but plenty of chances to support the cause throughout the weekend. All proceeds will help raise funds for AINSLEY’S HALO, so come ready to enjoy the music and make a difference.
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