Ryan "Wheelz" Schmidt Celebrates 16th Annual Ryan's Day Fundraiser
News related to:Inspiration on Wheelz · 2 min read
Ryan's Day, the annual live music fundraiser founded by Austin-based hip-hop artist Ryan "Wheelz" Schmidt, returns for its 16th year on Sunday, October 25, 2026, from 2 to 7 p.m. at The Field House, located at 1717 Scottsdale Drive, Suite 160, in Leander, TX. This year's theme, "Sweeter Than Ever," aims to raise awareness and funds for Inspiration on Wheelz, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to helping find a cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).
The event, which is free and open to all ages, will feature a lineup of six Austin-area acts, including Ryan "Wheelz" Schmidt himself, who will headline the afternoon and celebrate his upcoming 2027 album, "Keepin' It Country."
Schmidt, who lives with DMD, will be joined on stage by Lixbox, Reckless ATX, Defenders of the Faith, and Cold Heart Cash. Lixbox, a long-time participant in Ryan's Day, has played at the event since its inception. Larry Schmidt, the lead guitarist and father of Ryan, has served as the event's stage manager and talent coordinator from the start.
The afternoon will also include the 11th annual Wasabi Challenge, a crowd-favorite tradition inspired by the documentary "Darius Goes West." Guests can win prize drawings, bid in a live auction led by Ryan's uncle and longtime auctioneer Pete Bruhn, and get their faces painted by Austin's very own Lady B's face painting. A variety of food trucks will provide refreshments.
In addition to the music and activities, the event will offer free cowboy hats to the first 45 people who come through the door. Every donation, no matter the amount, supports Inspiration on Wheelz's mission. Donations of $100 or more will earn the donors a logo spot on the venue's Jumbotron during the event.
Local businesses can support Ryan's Day 16 as sponsors. Every donation of $100 or more earns the business a logo spot on the venue's Jumbotron during the event. The Field House is fully wheelchair accessible, and there will be plenty of free parking available.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is the most common fatal genetic disorder diagnosed in early childhood, causing progressive muscle loss and loss of independence. Inspiration on Wheelz is committed to raising public awareness through education, music, and its annual event, Ryan's Day, to help find a cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy.