Ponds and hundreds of acres of gently rolling hills make up the largest campground in Minnesota: El Rancho Mañana. You could easily spend the weekend hiking and a riding, but this weekend there’s something more: there’s music. Nominated three times as the event of the year by the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA), the Minnesota Bluegrass and Old-Time Music Festival promises a knockout return this summer. Come for the day, or opt pitch a tent and stick around for the four-day fest.
Watch the world’s fastest banjo player dance over the strings with ease, or listen to the smooth sounds of the IBMA female vocalist of the year. Either way it’s over 30 hours of stage performances. But this festival isn’t just about sitting back and simply listening to the music. Bust out your moves at one of the nightly dances or sign up your own group to play for Ranch House Live (if that sounds too intimidating, why not try the talent contest?). Learn to play a tune in the family area, or scarf down your fill of roast pig.
Whether you want to listen, learn, or participate, pick a shady spot at El Ranchero Mañana and start making the most of the summer before it heads south for the winter.
Minnesota Bluegrass and Old-Time Music Festival
Thursday, August 11- Sunday, August 14
El Rancho Mañana, 27302 Ranch Rd., Richmond
Schedule and prices vary, see schedule
minnesotabluegrass.org
