With the arrival of spring, anticipation is building for the 33rd Annual Finger Lakes GrassRoots Festival of Music & Dance, set to take place July 17-20, 2025, in the scenic town of Trumansburg, New York. The festival, a cornerstone of the summer music circuit, has once again curated a vibrant and diverse lineup that spans genres and continents, bringing together some of the most exciting artists in the world.
This year’s star-studded lineup includes country music royalty Lukas Nelson, the indie-pop charm of Lucius, and the Grammy-nominated Cuban afro-funk energy of Cimafunk. The festival also welcomes two-time Grammy-nominated bluegrass virtuoso Sierra Hull, Ivory Coast sensation Dobet Gnahoré, and Malian guitarist and songwriter Vieux Farka Touré, delivering an array of styles that celebrate the rich diversity of global music. Fans of traditional Irish music and dance will be treated to a performance by The Byrne Brothers, while festival mainstay Donna The Buffalo anchors the weekend with their signature mix of Americana, zydeco, and jam-infused rhythms.
Beyond these headlining acts, an additional 80 bands will grace the festival’s stages, including must-see performances by Keith Frank & The Soileau Zydeco Band, Jim Lauderdale, The Steel Wheels, Sam Fribush Organ Trio, Keith Secola & His Wild Band of Indians, Flying Clouds of South Carolina, Driftwood, Jennie Lowe Stearns, and Gunpoets. With a genre-spanning lineup featuring everything from folk and blues to funk and world music, GrassRoots continues its tradition of blending legendary artists with rising stars to create an unforgettable experience.
Adding to the festivities, GrassRoots has also announced the return of the 8th Annual GrassRoots Culture Camp, taking place July 13-16, 2025. This pre-festival event offers attendees the opportunity to learn directly from festival artists through workshops, jam sessions, and immersive experiences that deepen the connection between musicians and festivalgoers. Each day concludes with a communal dinner and an evening of live music and dancing, making it the perfect way to ease into the festival spirit.
Tickets for both the Finger Lakes GrassRoots Festival of Music & Dance and GrassRoots Culture Camp are on sale now at grassrootsfest.org, with a price increase set for May 1st. This annual celebration of music, dance, and community has earned its reputation as one of the most spirited festivals of the summer, bringing together artists and audiences for four days of unforgettable performances, cultural exchange, and pure musical joy.
