In episode 59 of the Music Festivals Podcast, I take you on a guided walk through everything that has happened so far in the 2025 festival season and give you a look at what's still to come.
It's a special milestone episode—59 shows in—and I wanted to do something different. Whether you’re planning your next big festival adventure or just love hearing real stories from the road, this one is for you.
This year has taken us coast to coast (the furthest trip being to Buena Vista, Colorado for the 2024 Renewal) and brought together an incredible lineup of moments, interviews, and performances. I walk you through the packed season so far—14 festivals attended, 8 band interviews, 13 conversations with camp neighbors, and four mini-festival documentaries.
There’s also a personal side to this journey—late-night episode edits, last-minute camper rental snafus (shout out to Outdoorsy for coming through in a pinch), and the slow but steady growth of the Music Festivals Podcast into something much bigger. My aim has always been to make you feel like you already know a festival, venue, or campground before you ever show up, and I’m grateful for every neighbor who’s joined me along the way.
This episode highlights a breakout performance from an emerging artist from Lancaster, Ohio named Phinley McKee. Seriously, you’ll want to see his set if you missed it so stay tuned for the full set to be published soon. You can also go back to the Hookahville 61 Live Stream on Sunday afternoon to watch.
But yeah .... at age 15, this kid is sure a special talent. I have no idea how the words and music come into his mind, but he writes and preforms with a wisdom gained from living many lives.
I also offer behind-the-scenes glimpses at my own journey—from a software guy to a music festival documentarian, with all the trials, hustle, and gratitude in between. I announce the exciting growth of the team for 2026 and plans to branch out into more genres and more live streams, including a potential shot at covering Burning Man. If you’re festival-curious or living vicariously from your couch, there’s something here for you.
Catch this episode for a full recap of where we’ve been this year, live performances, heartfelt interviews, and a preview of what’s still on the horizon—including the upcoming Lazy Jam (with stream info and tips on how to watch from home). If you haven’t already, check out the full episode, subscribe on YouTube, and join the Neighborhood newsletter for all the behind-the-scenes news, special features, and exclusive deals. Let’s keep bringing the festival spirit home together.
This week's festival performance of the week comes from my trip down to the Watermelon Pickers Festival in Berryville, VA a few weeks back.
The band - Slinky and the CobbleTones - was the winner of the 2024 festivals bluegrass band competition. And, on fiddle, you'll meet your festival organizer and promoter Stacey Sinclair. Go back and learn about her story - her passion for keeping this festival alive is contagious.
Video Credit: Watermelon Pickers Festival 2025 — Slinky and the Cobbletones LIVE in Berryville VA