Some go to festivals for the spectacle: the hula hoops, fringy mini-skirts and chemical-induced revelry. But true folk music fans flock to the Ann Arbor Folk Festival, a mellow two-day event that raises money for The Ark, a nonprofit folk and roots music venue.
The Ann Arbor Folk Festival is held at University of Michigan’s Hill Auditorium, a turn-of-the-century concert hall with incredible acoustics due to its interior parabolic shape. Despite its intimate size (the hall seats less than 4,000), the festival hosts some pretty big names — in 1976, the inaugural year, John Prine headlined. This year’s lineup includes long-time folk favorites Old Crow Medicine Show and Emmylou Harris.
Up-and-coming acts on the lineup are just as impressive. Friday includes uplifting modern soul from Nashville-based Devon Gilfillian, who blends Motown-style instrumentation with 21st century sensibilities. And on Saturday the self-proclaimed DIY boyband Michigan Rattlers throws electric Americana edginess into the mix, while the soaring vocals and finger picking of Lizzie No and The Sea The Sea are no less energetic. The two days of five-hour sets are smoothly managed by emcee hosts who are often performers and musicians themselves. So put on a comfy, sparkly dress (they make those now, thank god), caffeinate and get ready for a music marathon.
The Specs
- The Hill Auditorium seats up to 3,500 folk music lovers.
- Tickets for each day (Friday and Saturday) must be purchased separately. Tickets cost $47.50 – $120, depending on seat location. See all of the options here.
- Flying into Detroit? Check out Fifty Grande’s guide to the revitalizing Motor City here.
FAQs
What is the closest airport to the Ann Arbor Folk Festival?
Fly into the Detroit Metro Airport (DTW), then take a rideshare or the Michigan Flyer Shuttle Bus to Ann Arbor (30 miles).
Where is the Ann Arbor Folk Festival located?
The Hill Auditorium, 825 N. University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1276.
Is the Hill Auditorium ADA accessible?
Yes, Wheelchair-accessible spaces are first-come, first-served, and come with a companion seat.
Which artists are on the Ann Arbor Folk Festival 2024 lineup?
Old Crow Medicine Show, Emmylou Harris, Devon Gilfillian, Bailen, Darren Kiely, Sons of Mystro, Michigan Rattlers, Steve Poltz, Lizzie No, The Sea The Sea, Jeff Daniels MC.