Rich Tradition in Bluegrass Graces Stages in Frankfort Fest Sat & Sun

With Grammy award winners, international bands and legendary talents scheduled to perform for the 12th Annual Frankfort Bluegrass Festival, organizers are bursting with pride heading into this weekend.

“Our committee works year round to bring two days of superior bluegrass talent to the public for free,” said Steve Haberichter, a founding member of the all-volunteer committee. “It’s very gratifying."

With 40 performances by 15 bands over two days, the 12th annual edition builds on its rich tradition and international reach in delivering the finest of acoustic string band music Saturday and Sunday for free.

"We are very proud to host the Bluegrass Festival in our charming downtown and welcome visitors and music lovers from all over," said Frankfort Mayor Keith Ogle. "The all-volunteer committee has done an amazing job of assembling such talented performers and creating a family-friendly event.

“I think it captures the heart of American music and I am continually impressed by the outstanding musicianship and I'm sure you will be too."

The 100% non-for-profit, free, two- day festival is made possible by dedicated volunteers, donations and sponsorships.

The Briedert Green and Prairie Park stages in historic downtown Frankfort present award-winning bluegrass acts Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band, Jim Lauderdale & The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, AJ Lee & Blue Summit, Miles Over Mountains, The Grateful String Band, Wheels North, Special Consensus and more. Bands play from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday.

Frankfort Bluegrass Festival is a former “Event of the Year” award holder as named by the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA), which has opened doors literally around the world for artists, as well as Frankfort Bluegrass Festival organizers and audiences.

Recipients of the 2020 IBMA Bluegrass Ramble Showcase Artist of the Year, South Korean bluegrass band Country GongBang performs Saturday and Sunday. Winners of the 2023 IBMA International Band Performance Grant, the quintet plays contemporary bluegrass with a Korean twist, singing in both English and Korean. They have gained international followings through festivals in France and Japan.

“This is but one twist to the many stories that have brought us to our 12th annual Bluegrass Festival in Frankfort,” said Haberichter. “The extraordinary reach of bluegrass music throughout the world has been perpetuated by the IBMA to benefit all. We’re thrilled our audiences get to enjoy new artists in Frankfort every year.

“The evolution of our fest is a credit to the musicians, the mutual respect with our crowds and the volunteers who respond every year to make this event special.”

Four years removed from the challenges of dealing with a pandemic, the committee members who work year-round as organizers felt rewarded as the turnout and response was as strong as ever.

“Our generous sponsors and supporters remained steadfast to our commitment to bring free, top quality, award-winning bluegrass music to our unique community,” said Amanda Thompson, a fest coordinator.

Organizers encourage everyone to embrace the music, and to experience Frankfort’s eclectic offerings from its destination restaurants, unique shopping opportunities, green space and welcoming bike paths.

Each year parents are surprised to see more kids activities added to the open green space in Prairie Park. The Kids Activity Area welcomes toddlers to teens make crafts, play games, and enjoy the performances. Kids of all ages are encouraged the visit the Down Home Guitar tent to try out bluegrass instruments.

“As always our mission is to promote the preservation and education of bluegrass music, a true traditional American musical art form, in beautiful historic downtown Frankfort,” said Haberichter.

There is free parking.

Frankfort Bluegrass Festival, a two-day, free event, is Saturday & Sunday July 13-14, 2024 on Breidert Green and Prairie Park, downtown Frankfort, IL.
For stage schedule and other information, visit: www.frankfortbluegrassfest.com.