A Come-As-You-Are Night That Put 50 Guitars in MN Kids’ Hands
It was cold outside—but inside, the room was full of music and love
Merry Axe-mas: A Non-Gala for Free Guitars 4 Kids was a music-filled gathering rooted in community and generosity, held at Luce Line Brewing Co. in Plymouth, Minnesota. Designed as an alternative to a traditional formal fundraiser, the event leaned into a relaxed, come-as-you-are atmosphere while advancing Free Guitars 4 Kids’ mission: serving kids in underserved communities by placing guitars in their hands and connecting them with organizations that support long-term music education.
At the heart of the evening was the giveaway of 50 guitars to young musicians through four trusted partner organizations: Anthem Music Academy, Guitarra en el Barrio, Wayzata Public Schools, and Unlocked Mission/Joyful Noise. Throughout the program, educators and students shared reflections on what access to an instrument can mean—opening doors to creativity, confidence, and connection. Each story grounded the evening in the real, lived impact of Free Guitars 4 Kids’ work.
Nearly 200 attendees purchased $25 tickets, creating a welcoming, inclusive crowd that reflected the spirit of the mission. In addition to ticket sales, guests supported the work through a silent auction and several giving moments throughout the night. By the end of the evening, the event had raised just under $10,000—followed by a meaningful surprise: a $25,000 grant from Deluxe Checks, significantly extending the impact of the night.
Music shaped the night from start to finish, with Minneapolis-based singer-songwriters and performers generously sharing their time and talent. Many artists reflected on their first guitars and the role music played in their lives, creating a natural connection to the kids receiving instruments that evening. One lighthearted highlight came from a Hall of Fame air guitarist, whose performance brought laughter and joy to the room. FG4K-branded air guitars added a playful, mission-aligned fundraising moment to the evening.
Merry Axe-mas was made possible through the generosity and collaboration of committed partners and sponsors. The Minnesota Sounding Board played a key role in bringing the event to life, with strong support from Benson Orth Construction and Luce Line Brewery. Audio Logic Systems generously provided the sound system pro bono. In a powerful show of commitment, Mike Monson, CEO of Benson Orth, personally purchased all 50 guitars given away and committed to providing 100 guitars for the 2026 event.
With local media coverage and social sharing from artists and attendees, Merry Axe-mas extended beyond a single night—reflecting what’s possible when music, generosity, and community come together in service of kids in our communities.
