Adirondack Folk Festival | Schroon Lake | August 9, 2026
- Town Park Dock Street Schroon Lake, New York, 12870 United States (map)
The Adirondack Folk Music Festival Returns to Schroon Lake With Songs That Tell America’s Story
36th Annual Adirondack Folk Music Festival in Schroon Lake.
The 36th Annual Adirondack Folk Music Festival returns to Schroon Lake Town Park on Sunday, August 9, bringing an afternoon of free live music to one of the Adirondacks' most picturesque waterfront settings.
Held on the Helen Wildman Memorial Stage overlooking Schroon Lake from noon – 5:30 pm, the festival blends folk music, history, storytelling, dance, and community into one of the region's longest-running cultural traditions.
This year's theme, "From Sea to Shining Sea: America at 250 – Struggles, Glory, and Freedom," celebrates the nation's semiquincentennial through music that explores the people, movements, and moments that shaped American history. With nationally recognized performers, local legends, food trucks, and lakefront views, it's a summer afternoon that feels distinctly Adirondack.
Love discovering Adirondack events before everyone else? Subscribe to ADK Taste's weekly newsletter, In Good Taste, for hand-picked events, local food finds, and unforgettable places to explore.
Music with a story to tell.
Unlike many summer concerts, the Adirondack Folk Music Festival isn't simply about great performances—it's about the stories behind the songs.
Town Park in Schroon Lake is a perfecting setting for live folk music.
The afternoon opens windows into American history through music, from the Underground Railroad and the Civil Rights Movement to Adirondack settlement, labor history, and the enduring legacy of Woody Guthrie. The result is part concert, part history lesson, and entirely entertaining.
Festival-goers can expect thoughtful performances that invite audiences to listen closely while still tapping their feet.
Highlights of this year's Adirondack festival.
This year's lineup features an impressive collection of performers representing different traditions within American folk music.
Reggie Harris presents songs and stories inspired by the Underground Railroad, blending powerful vocals with compelling historical storytelling.
Adirondack Folk Festival is summer tradition for over 35 years.
The acclaimed Magpie Duo—Terry Leonino and Greg Artzner—explore the Civil Rights Movement and the legacy of abolitionist John Brown through music that remains as relevant today as ever.
Beloved Adirondack musician Dan Berggren and Friends will debut "Taking Root," a world premiere cantata celebrating the lives of the early settlers who helped shape the Adirondacks.
Adding movement to the afternoon, Vanaver Caravan presents American in Motion: The People's 250th Celebration, combining dance and music that honors the workers who built America.
Bluegrass fans won't want to miss Cole Quest and the City Pickers. Led by Woody Guthrie's grandson, the group brings classic Guthrie songs together with spirited bluegrass and Americana.
Why Schroon Lake is the perfect stage.
Few festival settings rival Schroon Lake in August.
The Helen Wildman Memorial Stage overlooks sparkling water framed by Adirondack mountains, creating a natural amphitheater where music drifts across the lake. Visitors can spread out blankets or lawn chairs, grab lunch from food trucks, browse information kiosks, and even meet many of the performers throughout the day.
It's the kind of relaxed, community-centered gathering that has become increasingly rare—and one the Adirondacks continues to do exceptionally well.
ADK Taste recommendation.
Arrive before noon to claim a shady lakeside spot and enjoy the full program from beginning to end. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, sunscreen, and a light jacket for later in the afternoon. Downtown Schroon Lake is only a short walk away, making it easy to grab an ice cream or explore local shops before or after the festival.
ADK Taste insight.
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, communities across the country are reflecting on the nation's history. This festival does something uniquely Adirondack by exploring those stories through folk traditions while premiering new works rooted in the region itself. It's a reminder that the Adirondacks have always been part of America's larger story.
Plan your visit.
The 36th Annual Adirondack Folk Music Festival takes place:
- Sunday, August 9
- Noon – 5:30 pm
- Helen Wildman Memorial Stage
- Schroon Lake Town Park, Dock Street
- Schroon Lake, NY
- Admission: Free
Visitors should check the festival's official website or Facebook page for any schedule updates or weather-related announcements.
Whether traveling from Lake George, Ticonderoga, North Creek, Lake Placid, or simply exploring the central Adirondacks, this festival offers one of the region's best opportunities to spend a summer afternoon where exceptional music meets extraordinary scenery.
If discovering events like this is exactly why you love the Adirondacks, subscribe to In Good Taste, ADK Taste's free weekly newsletter featuring hand-picked events, local restaurants, travel ideas, and hidden gems.
Schroon Lake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Adirondack Folk Music Festival free?
Yes. Admission is completely free for all visitors.
When is the Adirondack Folk Music Festival?
The festival takes place on Sunday, August 9, from noon – 5:30 pm.
Where is the festival held?
The event takes place at the Helen Wildman Memorial Stage in Schroon Lake Town Park on Dock Street overlooking Schroon Lake.
Are food and drinks available?
Yes. Food trucks will be on-site throughout the afternoon.
Should visitors bring chairs?
Yes. Lawn chairs or blankets are recommended for comfortable lakeside seating.
Is the festival family friendly?
Absolutely. The festival welcomes visitors of all ages and offers an afternoon of music, storytelling, dancing, and community in a relaxed outdoor setting.
Find the best places to eat, shop, stay and experience near Schroon Lake.
America's Story Runs Through the Adirondacks
From Fort Ticonderoga and Teddy Roosevelt to the Miracle on Ice and the birth of the American vacation, the Adirondacks helped shape the nation.
Shop our store for unique Adirondack gifts, clothing, merchandise and cool stuff.
Ultimate Guide to the Adirondacks
Your insider’s guide to exploring the Adirondacks—where to go, what to eat, and the experiences that make this place unforgettable.
ADK Talks Podcast
Love the Adirondacks? You’ll love our podcast. We take listeners beyond the guidebooks and into the heart of the Adirondacks. We share stories from the people behind the best places to eat, shop, stay and explore in the ADK. Find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.
See the top upcoming events in the Schroon Lake region of the Adirondacks.
Navigate to the Adirondack Folk Music Festival in Schroon Lake.
- Posted In: Events, Gore Mountain & Schroon Lake Area, Schroon Lake