Summer certainly doesn’t lack for music festivals, that’s for certain. Sure, we’ve all likely heard about Bonneroo, Coachella and now “Oldchella†(aka Desert Trip). There are also, however, some really fun ones that may not be on everyone’s radar. Here are two ones worthy of consideration if you’re not only looking to hear some great music, but want to do so in a distinctive atmosphere.
Although only in its third year, the Wildwood Revival has quickly established itself as a unique musical experience. Hosted on a 30 acre farm outside Athens, GA, the festival is about more than music. It fosters a sense of community with campers enjoying everything from a vintage flea market to morning yoga classes (not to mention a cool-sounding gospel brunch!).
And there’s the music, a stellar line-up of Americana artists that reads like a veritable tour of Southern American music. Artists like Gillian Welch, Houndmouth, The Lone Bellow, Legendary Shack Shakers, JP Harris and the Lost Bayou Ramblers will all be performing in an open air barn.
Sounds fun, doesn’t it? Act quick. To keep the festival’s unique and intimate feel, capacity is limited to 1,500.
The Wildwood Revival takes place outside Athens GA from August 26th through August 28th.
The Green River Festival is really two festivals in one. On the music side, it continues to bring in an impressive Americana-based line-up to Western Massachusetts. Legends like Peter Wolf, Los Lobos and Charles Neville perform alongside emerging artists like Dawes, Shakey Graves, Margo Price and Shovels and Rope. One can also expect some serious dance-party action with folks like the aforementioned Charles Neville, Big Sam’s Funky Nation, the Greyhounds and the Soul Rebels on the bill.
The other half of the festival is full of hot air. Literally. A group of hot air balloons fill the sky during the day and, at night, provide a light show like no other. There are even rides available for those who feel like getting a birds-eye view of the music.
The Green River Festival takes place in Greenfield MA from July 8th through July 10th.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.