MOORHEAD, MN – Mick’s Office, a historic fixture in the Moorhead dining and nightlife district, has announced the final details for the launch of its new weekly live music initiative, “Barstool Sessions.” The series officially begins Tuesday, January 13, 2026, with an inaugural Open Mic Night.
Local musician Aaron Niehaus will coordinate the weekly series, which aims to bring a consistent schedule of local talent to the venue every Tuesday night.
Launch Event and Format
The series kicks off on January 13 with an Open Mic Night. Sign-ups for performers will open in person at 6:30 p.m., with live performances scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m.
Organizers have clarified the format for the opening night, welcoming soloists and duos to perform either original music or covers. The venue stated the event is open to any act that “makes noise,” encouraging a loose and inclusive atmosphere.
Following the launch, the series will settle into a rotation, alternating weekly between open mic sessions and scheduled “Gig Nights” featuring paid local artists.
Owen Piehl Announced as First Featured Artist
The venue has confirmed the lineup for the second week of the series. On Tuesday, January 20, local artist Owen Piehl (@owenpiehlmusic) will serve as the first featured musician for “Gig Night.” Piehl will perform a two-hour set from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
A “5-Star Dive Bar” Legacy
The Barstool Sessions series represents a new programming chapter for Mick’s Office (10 8th St S), a venue that prides itself on a reputation as a “5-Star Dive Bar.”
For decades, Mick’s Office has been a staple of the Fargo-Moorhead community, known for its signature burgers, low lighting, and unpretentious environment. Mick’s Office is widely recognized as a “legendary” gathering spot for a cross-section of the city, ranging from college students to long-time locals. The new music series aims to capitalize on this existing culture, with organizers describing the intended vibe as “loud enough to sing along, loose enough to dance.”
Upcoming Schedule
The Barstool Sessions schedule for the first quarter of 2026 is as follows:
- Jan. 13: Open Mic Night
- Jan. 20: Gig Night
- Jan. 27: Open Mic Night
- Feb. 3: Gig Night
- Feb. 10: Open Mic Night
- Feb. 17: Gig Night
- Feb. 24: Open Mic Night
- March 3: Gig Night
- March 10: Open Mic Night
- March 17: Gig Night
- March 24: Open Mic Night
- March 31: Gig Night
There is no cover charge for attending these events.
