A weekend filled with rich tradition, diverse music, and a celebration of community
The South Florida Folk & Acoustic Music Festival is gearing up for a spectacular return. Scheduled from January 31 to February 2 at the Bergeron Rodeo Grounds in Davie, the festival has grown from its modest beginnings in the early '90s to become a flagship event for folk music lovers across the region.
This year’s lineup promises to deliver an unforgettable experience, featuring over 40 performances, including bluegrass, blues, world music, and youth talent showcases.
The festival’s origins are rooted in the vision of Michael Stock, a WLRN folk DJ who played a pivotal role in establishing the event. His dedication to creating a platform for folk music artists and enthusiasts alike has left a lasting legacy in South Florida.
Initially held as a single-day event at Easterlin Park, the festival has since evolved into a three-day celebration that draws local and national talent. Longtime folk musician Grant Livingston remembers the charm of those early days, where performers had to compete with the sounds of nearby train tracks, often improvising train-themed songs to add humor to the moment. This playful yet resilient spirit continues to define the festival today.
The 2025 edition will feature an impressive mix of performers curated by festival co-director Elyse Brunt and her team. Headliner Sarah Lee Guthrie, the granddaughter of folk legend Woody Guthrie, represents the generational continuity of the genre, while local favorites like the Killbillies and Holt & Cabe add a Southern flair. The festival also spotlights young talent, such as the JECC-Jazz Education Community Coalition, ensuring that folk music’s future remains bright.
Beyond the mainstage performances, attendees can engage in songwriting contests, hands-on workshops, and lively jam sessions that capture the communal essence of folk music. These activities offer opportunities for seasoned artists and newcomers to connect, learn, and share their love for the genre. Livingston emphasizes the joy of discovering new artists and reconnecting with old friends at the festival, making it a must-attend for folk enthusiasts.
The festival is a cornerstone event for the South Florida Folk & Acoustic Music Club, which hosts monthly gatherings, acoustic concerts, and song swaps throughout the year. These events create a vibrant, year-round community for music lovers and ensure the festival’s spirit continues long after the weekend ends.
Livingston encourages attendees to embrace every moment, from the competitive songwriting to the spontaneous jam sessions that embody the festival's spirit. Tickets range from $16 to $105, making the festival accessible to a broad audience. More details can be found at sffolk.org.
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