By Dan Rozman Photos by Mark Raker
The Annapolis Baygrass Music Festival is set to return for its second year, promising a weekend of top-notch music and environmental stewardship on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay. Scheduled for September 21-22, 2024, at Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis, Maryland, this family-friendly event combines the best of bluegrass, jamgrass, and Americana with a powerful mission to protect and restore the Bay.
Music enthusiasts will be treated to an impressive lineup across two alternating stages. Saturday’s headliner, Oteil & Friends, features Oteil Burbridge of Dead & Company and Allman Brothers Band fame, joined by an all-star cast including Melvin Seals and Steve Kimock. The day’s roster also includes jamgrass pioneers Leftover Salmon, “King of Newgrass” Sam Bush, and other much-loved bands like Sierra Hull and The Lil Smokies.
Sunday’s lineup is equally compelling, with Grammy-winning progressive bluegrass ensemble The Infamous Stringdusters taking the headline spot. They’ll be joined by the psychedelic country sounds of Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country, the all-female powerhouse Big Richard, and the Grateful Dead-inspired Brown-Eyed Women, among others. Throughout the weekend, festival goers will enjoy surprise appearances by Artists-at-Large Jennifer Hartswick, Natalie Cressman of the Trey Anastasio Band, and DC area saxophonist Ron Holloway.
But Baygrass is more than just a music festival. It’s a celebration of environmental consciousness and community well-being. The event’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect, from the use of compostable dining ware to the ban on single-use plastic water bottles. These practices serve as a living example of environmental stewardship for attendees.
Education plays a key role in the festival’s mission. While specific workshop topics aren’t detailed, the event promises interactive learning experiences alongside the music. The festival’s partnership with The VA Way brings vital mental health resources to the forefront, with organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Health and the Anne Arundel County Department of Health on hand to provide information and support.
The charitable heart of Baygrass beats strongly, with a portion of all proceeds benefiting local environmental non-profits. The Watershed Stewards Academy, Oyster Recovery Partnership, and Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay are among the organizations that will receive support from the event. This focus on local ecology underscores the festival’s commitment to its stunning backdrop – the Chesapeake Bay itself.
Festival co-founder and CEO Ron Peremel emphasizes the event’s unique blend of entertainment and education. “Baygrass was born out of our team’s love of progressive bluegrass music, a desire to create a fun and unique community-oriented vibe, and a passion for protecting the Chesapeake Bay,” he says. “The Baygrass philosophy is to help people learn about conservation, sustainability, and mental health—in a way that combines education with fun.”
As the festival enters its second year, it’s clear that Baygrass has struck a chord with music lovers and environmentalists alike. With its diverse lineup, stunning beachfront venue, and dedication to important causes, the Annapolis Baygrass Music Festival is poised to become a highlight of the Mid-Atlantic festival season. Whether you’re coming for the tunes, the cause, or both, Baygrass promises a weekend of joy, learning, and a positive impact on the shores of the Chesapeake.
DAILY LINEUPS
Saturday, September 21:
Oteil & Friends:
(Oteil Burbridge, Melvin Seals, Steve Kimock, Jason Crosby,
Johnny Kimock, Tom Guarna, Lamar Williams Jr.)
Leftover Salmon
Trouble No More
Sam Bush
Sierra Hull
The Lil Smokies
Geraldine
Sunday, September 22:
Kitchen Dwellers
Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country
Cris Jacobs & Friends
Big RichardBrown Eyed Women
Both Days: Artists-at-Large: Jennifer Hartswick, Natalie Cressman, and Ron Holloway
Single Day and Two Day VIP & GA Tix On Sale Now
(Limited Availability on Single Day and VIP)
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