On Saturday June 22, from 3 to 10 p.m., the Sourland Conservancy will host the 16th annual Sourland Mountain Festival, featuring hours of live music, local food, craft beer, wine and spirits, mountain history, and family activities.
This year’s musical line-up includes six popular bands with local roots: Danielia Cotton, Anthony Krizan, Citizens Band Radio, Mike Montrey Band, The Adventures of Matte Black, and the The Gumbo Gumbas. Hopewell native Danielia Cotton will co-headline with Anthony Krizan, a former member of the Spin Doctors, who will play blues infused rock ‘n’ roll with soulful swampy undertones.
The Mike Montrey Band blends Americana, Folk and Rock ‘n Roll. The Adventures of Matte Black is a musical collaborative that has endless influences while still producing a distinct and unique sound. The Gumbo Gumbas are a delicious medley of authentic New Orleans Jazz with a side of Creole.
In addition to the music, guests will enjoy a variety food and drink including gourmet specialties, hot dogs, Thai or Latin cuisine, waffles, ice cream, cheesecake, award-winning wine, craft beer and spirits as well as fresh, organically grown, local produce and juices from Sourland region farms including Martenette Farms, Morganics Family Farm, Marchese Farm and Fairgrown Farm.
The Cool Critters area will host alpacas, goats, dogs, amphibians and other animals. Guests may pet some of the critters, ask questions of naturalists and farmers, and watch live demonstrations. History Lane will feature the Lenape Nation, the Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum, and others with important stories to tell. A plethora of educational exhibits will focus on the environment and the great outdoors.
For pure fun, visitors can try the bouncy house or the supervised rock-climbing wall. Adults may take an electric bike for a spin courtesy of Sourland Cycles. Vendors will offer items including handmade gifts, jewelry, unique hats and apparel, plant medicine, native crafts, hot sauce, license plate signs, leather goods, dog and cat inspired clothing, and much more.
Organizers say proceeds from the Sourland Mountain Festival will support the Sourland Conservancy’s mission to protect, promote and preserve the unique character of the Sourland Mountain region. The 90-square-mile region encompasses a complex ecosystem of forest, wetlands and grasslands.
The festival is one the Conservancy’s two signature events. The Sourland Spectacular bicycle rally will be held this year on Sept. 7.
Discounted advance-sale tickets are available now: adults $20 ($30 at the gate); young people (12-18) $10; children under 12, free. For more information or to purchase admission, visit the Sourland website.
Danielia Cotton.,
