The Best Folk Music Festivals of Summer 2012
Contents
It’s that time of year again! The weather is getting warmer and the days are getting longer, which can only mean one thing: it’s time for summer festivals! Check out our list of the best folk music festivals of summer 2012.
Introduction
originate in the rural, agrarian communities of Europe and were a way for people to celebrate the change of seasons and the end of winter. With the arrival of spring and summer, these festivals would often coincide with religious or pagan holidays, and they were a time for people to come together, enjoy the warmer weather, and celebrate the start of the planting season.
While many of these festivals have long since ceased to exist, there are still some that are going strong today. If you’re a fan of folk music, here are some of the best festivals happening this summer:
-The Transylvania Folk Fest takes place in Romania from June 1-3 and features traditional Romanian folk music and dance.
-The Strawberry Music Festival takes place in California from May 31-June 3 and features a variety of folk musicians from across the United States.
-The Clearwater Festival takes place in New York from June 15-17 and includes performances by Pete Seeger, Arlo Guthrie, Ani DiFranco, and more.
Newport Folk Festival
The Newport Folk Festival is an annual music festival founded in Newport, Rhode Island, in 1959 by George Wein. The festival is often considered one of the first modern folk music festivals and helped to popularize folk music in the United States. It is currently held at Fort Adams State Park. The most recent incarnation of the festival took place on July 28–29, 2012.
Pickathon Music Festival
The Pickathon Music Festival is an annual event that takes place in Oregon and features a wide range of folk music. The festival has been running since 1998 and takes place over three days. It features a mix of well-known and up-and-coming folk musicians, and has something for everyone.
Old Settler’s Music Festival
Old Settler’s Music Festival takes place in Driftwood, Texas, about 25 miles southwest of Austin. The four-day event, which is held in April, features more than 70 acts on eight stages. Highlights of the 2012 lineup include Steve Martin and the Steep Canyon Rangers, Emmylou Harris, John Prine, Jurassic 5, and Ryan Adams.
RockyGrass
RockyGrass is an annual bluegrass music festival in Lyons, Colorado. The three-day event features more than 30 Bluegrass bands on four stages, as well as camping, food and drink vendors, and kids’ activities. RockyGrass is known for its relaxed atmosphere and passionate fans, and has been described as a “bluegrass paradise.”
Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival
The Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival is held every July in Oak Hill, New York. The festival features a wide range of bluegrass music, including traditional, contemporary, and progressive styles. In addition to the music, the festival offers workshops, jam sessions, and plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the beautiful Catskill Mountains.
Conclusion
There you have it – a list of some great folk festivals happening across the country this summer. If you’re a fan of folk music, or just looking for a great place to enjoy some live music outdoors, these festivals are definitely worth checking out. And who knows, you might just discover your new favorite band in the process.
