The Sun Shines on North Creek!...

After what has seemed like weeks of rainy weather, this north country event enjoyed blazing sun and high spirits! The Upper Hudson Bluegrass Festival, August 22-24, brought people from all over to the small town of North Creek. The northern part of the Hudson River flows nearby, hence the name "Upper Hudson."

The Ski Bowl Park was filled with campers, tents, vans and large motorhomes. When I arrived at noon on Thursday, a day before the opening act came on the stage, there were many people already there and small groups gathering for "field picking." Festivals such as these are a staple in the summer social scene and a wonderful example of Adirondack/North Country culture.

Here is Dave Nichols and "Spare Change" from Malone, NY. Dave is playing mandolin, his wife, Nadine is playing the bass. He always features each band member in various songs, sharing the "spotlight."


By mid-day on Saturday the audience filled the pavillion, by sunset the lawn in front was covered with people on blankets and in lawn chairs. Children danced and played to the music.



"Smokey" Green, a North Country legend entertains,....

In the parking lot people gather at various campers to enjoy informal jam sessions. This lady playing the bass was singing a ballad with a sweet and clear voice.

Beartracks,.... Junior Barber, Julie Venne-Hogan and her brother Tom Venne. Julie's energetic style on the bass is such fun to watch. http://www.beartracksband.com/

Here two young men are working the edge of the crowd selling raffle tickets for a guitar by Blueridge. Dave Nichols donates a guitar for a raffle and all proceeds go to support the festival. Dave does this at each festival he attends. What a generous way to support the continuation of bluegrass in the Adirondacks and surrounding areas. Dave Nichols is an artist who builds mandolins and also does custom pearl inlay work as well as performing. Check him out at http://www.custompearlinlay.com/aboutdave.htm .

Other performers were The Atkinson Family,...
and another of my most favorite,... Cabin Fever, http://www.thecabinfeverband.com/

If you want to experience fun and friendship in the "bluegrass family"... attend a festival. Don't forget to bring a lawn chair,... and settle down to spend a few hours or a weekend with some great music!