The 12th annual Winter Hoot Family Music Festival, a heartwarming celebration of roots music and community, will take place from January 31 to February 2, 2025, at the Ashokan Center, in Olivebridge. Featuring live music, guided nature hikes, blacksmithing demonstrations, an instrument petting zoo and a dedicated kids’ zone with crafts and movies, the event offers something for everyone. Attendees can stay in Ashokan’s cozy longhouses for late-night jams and dances or drop by for a day of fun.

"This is a truly family-friendly experience where everyone can feel welcome,” says Ruth Merenda, Hoot co-producer and Ashokan’s director of community outreach. “It’s a chance to connect through music, nature and creative activities while supporting the Ashokan Center’s mission to inspire learning and build community through shared experiences in nature, history, music and art.”

The festivities kick off Friday with a VIP donor reception, community dinner and a lively concert featuring Jay Ungar & Molly Mason. Saturday’s lineup includes performances by The Mammals, Kyshona, Billy Keane and more, along with ice sculpting, square dancing and delicious local food. The festival wraps up Sunday morning with yoga and a farewell singalong.