Festival t-shirts have arrived, the selfie wall is up in the parking lot, and the hillside above the Little Lot has new shade structures. All this can mean only one thing – the Savage Bluegrass Festival is here!
Vocal harmonies, strong rhythms, and improvisation return to Savage Mill this Saturday with the 5th annual Savage Bluegrass Festival. This casual family- and friend-oriented event brings together lovers of the genre with those who are keen about all things Savage Mill. And new this year, the festival design pays homage to Clarence, our resident pigeon.
Founded in Summer 2021 as a way to safely bring people together despite the pandemic, the Savage Bluegrass Festival welcomes people (and pooches) to mingle, enjoy delicious food and drink, and soak in unique local musical talent. Guests nab one of the comfy chairs or picnic tables on the shady hillside above the Little Lot or position their own chair or blanket on the grass to ensure optimum viewing.
The Lineup
Opening the festivities at noon is the Baltimore-based Satyr Hill Band. Part of the Savage Bluegrass Festival since its inception, this enjoyably versatile five-piece band features four lead singers and a full acoustic sound.
Singer, songwriter/guitar picker Dave Zelonka is next on the stage (1:15 – 2 pm). Hailing from central Maryland, Dave plays bluegrass heavily influenced by the punk rock he grew up on. His lyrics incorporate thoughtful storytelling and rich imagery, harmonies inspired by The Stanley Brothers, and intricate yet melodic guitar breaks. Want a break from the sun? Dave also heads a jam session inside the New Weave building at 2:30 pm.
Described as “the perfect blend of grit, drive, originality and fun…” by Bluegrass Country Radio, local favorite Geraldine presents their honey-sweet harmonies at 2:15.
This year’s headliner, Rock Creek Revival, debuts at the Savage Bluegrass Festival at 3:45 pm. Founded in Maryland, this four-piece acoustic bluegrass band ensemble is comprised of Alex Orr (mandolin), Sean McCartney (guitar), Chris Blauciak (bass), and Andrew Janosek (banjo).
The Food and Drink
In between, head to the Dive Bar & Grille tent for smashburgers, pulled pork sandwiches, hot dogs, wraps, beer, wine, and other festival-specific items. Enjoy them in your spot on the grass or in the “beer holler” festival tent. Finish off with fresh ice cream and popsicles from Kent Island-based Tasty Toucan and potent fruity moonshine from Frederick County’s Rosie Cheeks Distillery. We’ll have some Savage-based vendors – don’t miss the local honey from Backyard Apiaries and information about the Savage Farmers Market, taking place across the street on Baldwin Common Wednesdays 4-7pm through Sept. 24th!
The festival is rain or shine. Tickets are $20 adults, $10 kids ages 6-12. Kids 5 and under – and your furry friend – are free! Buy your ticket today or at the door. We look forward to seeing you soon!