Hiawatha Music Festival facts for kids
The Hiawatha Traditional Music Festival is a fun music event held every year in Marquette, Michigan. It happens during the second-to-last full weekend of July. This festival celebrates many kinds of traditional and acoustic American music.
You can hear different styles like bluegrass, old-time, Cajun, Celtic, acoustic blues, and Gospel music. The festival features musicians from all over the country, as well as local talents. There are also special activities and music just for teens and children.
About the Festival
The Hiawatha Festival started in 1979 in Champion, Michigan. Since 1984, it has been held at the Marquette Tourist Park. This park is owned by the City of Marquette. It's a great spot for the festival, located along the Dead River.
The park has plenty of space for campers. It offers bathrooms with showers, a big green field for activities, and a lake with a beach. Many volunteers work hard all year to make the festival happen.
What to Do at the Festival
The festival offers lots of things to see and do. You can find many food vendors selling tasty treats. There's also an arts and crafts show where you can buy unique, often earth-friendly, items.
Musicians also have a special area to sell their CDs and DVDs. For younger visitors, there are performances and activities designed for children, tweens, and teenagers. Adults can also join workshops throughout Saturday and Sunday.
Camping and Music
Camping at Tourist Park is a big part of the festival experience. There are different camping areas for everyone. Families can find quiet sections. There's also a special area for young people to camp together.
A popular spot is the 'A' section, where many musicians stay. Even after the main stage closes for the night, musicians often gather to play music. This is a great chance for new musicians to join in and share their talents. Fire pits are available for warmth and light, making the nights cozy.
Safety and Future Plans
The Hiawatha Music Festival works with local authorities to keep everyone safe. Experienced security volunteers, paid security, and city officers help ensure a secure environment.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival did not take place in 2020. The 42nd festival was moved to 2021.
