Nestled in the rolling hills of Southeast Ohio, the city of Nelsonville is home to one of the most unique and captivating music festivals in the area – the Nelsonville Music Festival.
Held annually over three to four days in the summer, this event draws thousands of music lovers from all over the region for a weekend of world-class musical acts, local food and drink vendors and community-oriented activities.
History of the Nelsonville Music Festival
The NMF began in 2005 as a small gathering of music enthusiasts in Nelsonville, Ohio with an aim to revitalize the town’s Historic Arts District. The first festival featured a mix of local acts and regional bands, and the event drew only a few hundred attendees. However, the producers of the festival, Stuart’s Opera House, had a vision of creating a unique and vibrant music festival that celebrated the beauty and culture of Southeastern Ohio.
Stuart’s Opera House is a historic performing arts center located in Nelsonville, Ohio, and has been a cultural hub for the region since its inception in 1879. With Stuart’s at the helm, the NMF continued to grow and evolve into one of the most unique music festivals in the country.
In 2006, the NMF moved to a field behind Rocky Boots – a large outdoor apparel store. The festival continued to grow in popularity, with more than 1,000 people attending in 2007.
Over the years, the NMF has continued to expand its lineup and offerings.
In 2020, the NMF was forced to cancel due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it returned in 2021 with a lineup that featured Yarn, Rainbow Girls, and Parker Louis. The festival has continued to grow in popularity, with more than 7,500 people attending in 2019. The latest iteration of the event in 2022 featured Japanese Breakfast as a headliner.
Over the years, the NMF has attracted some of the biggest names in music, including Wilco, The Flaming Lips, The Decemberists, and Courtney Barnett. The festival has also given a platform to emerging artists, such as Shakey Graves, Valerie June, and Lake Street Dive, who have gone on to become popular acts in their own right.
The NMF is culturally unique
One of the key features of the NMF is its commitment to showcasing regional talent alongside national acts. The festival has a strong focus on Americana, folk, and bluegrass music, which reflects the cultural traditions of Southeastern Ohio. However, the festival has also featured a wide variety of genres over the years, including indie rock, hip-hop, and electronica.
In addition to its music lineup, the NMF has become known for its community-focused atmosphere. The festival is family-friendly, with a designated kids’ area and a variety of activities for children. Local artisans and food vendors are also featured prominently, giving attendees a taste of the region’s unique culture and cuisine.
The festival is a non-profit event, with proceeds going back into the Nelsonville community through various arts and education programs. The festival also works to minimize its impact on the environment by promoting sustainable practices, such as composting and recycling.
Today, the NMF has become an integral part of the cultural landscape of Southeastern Ohio. The festival’s commitment to showcasing regional talent and promoting community engagement has made it a beloved event for both locals and visitors alike. As the NMF continues to evolve and expand, it is sure to remain a highlight of the music festival season for years to come.
Enjoy amazing music (and camping!) in the heart of Appalachia
One of the standout features of the NMF is its beautiful setting. The festival takes place at the Snow Fork campground in the heart of Nelsonville, surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and streams. This breathtaking location creates a relaxed and intimate atmosphere that sets the NMF apart from other music events.
The camping situation at NMF is also very unique. A plethora of options are available for festgoers. Stay the night in your car on a primitive campsite for just $150. More comprehensive options exist as well. Park your RV for $350, hike-in camp for only $50, or go big with communal camping with your buddies for $2,500!
For more information about this year’s event, from times to ticketing, visit this link.
The NMF truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re a music lover, art aficionado, or simply looking for a fun and unique weekend experience, the festival has it all. And with its commitment to community and the environment, it’s an event that you can feel good about supporting.
So why not come and experience the NMF for yourself? With its beautiful setting, world-class musical acts, and commitment to community and the environment, it’s an event that you won’t want to miss. Book your tickets today and prepare for a weekend of music, art, and community in the rolling hills of southeast Ohio.