More than 25 years ago, the very first live notes ever played inside Powerhouse Pub came from a rowdy, high-energy band of friends from the Bay Area who were already gaining a reputation for turning every room into a party. This Saturday night, that same band—Wonderbread 5—returns to the Historic Folsom venue they helped put on the map, bringing decades of memories, music, and full-throttle showmanship back to the stage where it all began.
When Powerhouse Pub first opened its doors a quarter-century ago, owner Murray Weaver knew he needed a band that could make a statement. Wonderbread 5 was that band, and their very first performance set the tone for everything the venue would become.
“I remember they packed the place that night back then, and they still pack it today whenever they come back,” Weaver recalled. “They had a great following then and still do today. It’s always a good show.”
That first night marked the beginning of a long relationship between Powerhouse and one of Northern California’s most beloved live acts. Now, as the venue celebrates its 25th anniversary, Wonderbread 5 returns to honor that history with the same unstoppable energy that has defined their career.
The San Francisco–based party band has evolved into one of the most in-demand live dance acts in the country, headlining major events, fundraisers, corporate productions, festivals, and nightclub shows while maintaining their signature style built on fun, charisma, and a fearless blend of genres. Formed from a tight-knit group of lifelong friends, their lineup—Chris Adams on keyboards and vocals, Jeffrey Fletcher on lead vocals, John McDill on bass and vocals, Tommy Rickard on drums and vocals, and Michael Taylor on guitar and vocals—brings a seamless chemistry that few bands can match.
Known for their wildly eclectic setlists, over-the-top stage presence, and crowd-engaging antics, Wonderbread 5 can effortlessly shift from 1960s Motown to 1980s pop, from 1990s alt-rock to current Top 40. Their strength lies not just in versatility but in instinct—reading the room, feeding the energy, and keeping the dance floor full from the first beat to the last. With more than two decades of national and international performances behind them, the band has retained the same camaraderie, humor, and showmanship that helped define their early days at Powerhouse.
Exclusively booked through Jay Siegan Presents, Wonderbread 5 continues to tour worldwide, yet they’ve never forgotten the venues that helped launch their momentum. Their Powerhouse return is more than a performance—it’s a full-circle celebration. A chance for longtime fans to relive memories of the early days, and for new fans to see why Wonderbread 5 remains one of the most enduring and entertaining live bands on the West Coast.
The Saturday show begins at 10 p.m., with a packed house expected as Powerhouse continues its year-long 25th anniversary celebration.
Sunday will bring an entirely different kind of celebration as Powerhouse hostsIn Skip’s “Holiday” Spirit, beginning at 3 p.m. and continuing into the evening. The multi-band showcase honors the late Skip Maggiora of Skip’s Music, a revered mentor, educator, and champion of the Sacramento music community whose legacy continues to shape local musicians today. Six bands will reimagine holiday classics with rock, blues, and pop twists, followed by a community holiday jam from 7 to 10 p.m.
In keeping with Skip’s lifelong passion for giving, the event will collect donations for Cakes 4 Kids (toys and stuffed animals) and Mercy Peddlers (socks, hats, gloves, and warm winter wear). Attendees are encouraged to bring contributions and holiday spirit to support both causes.
Powerhouse Pub is located at 614 Sutter Street in Historic Folsom. For tickets, event details, and weekend entertainment updates, visitwww.powerhousepub.com.
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