The Sourland Conservancy is planning to host another edition of its annual Sourland Mountain Festival on Saturday, Aug. 16.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the rain-or-shine event, which will be held at Unionville Vineyards in Ringoes from 3 to 8:30 p.m.
Live music is a regular feature of the event. Dave Butler and Friends, featuring Jon Ladeau, will open the show, followed by James Popik & Supernova playing “festival jazz.”
BetterDucks will take the stage later in the day, and headlining this year’s show will be the funk band Charles Laurita & The Mischief.
Festival co-chair Tiffany Bai says that the planning team has worked hard to make this year’s event bigger and better than ever.
“We wanted to create a festival that truly celebrates the spirit of the Sourlands—its music, its makers, and its mission. We’re so proud of the lineup, community partners, vendors, and experiences we’re offering this year to celebrate the 20th anniversary,” she said.
In addition to the music, the festival will feature a variety of interactive and family-friendly attractions. There will be llamas from Spruce Run Llama Farm and guided nature hikes led by educators from the Raritan Headwaters Association. There will also be face painting and hands-on activities.
Native plants will be available for purchase from My Backyard at Nectars, a Titusville-based native plant center. Shoppers can also browse handcrafted goods from local artisans and small businesses, including Hillsborough Trading Co.
The Ryland Inn, led by chef Daniel Brunina, as well as AMA Pizza, Cas Pierogi and Olsson’s Fine Foods will be onsite to serve food. Lone Eagle Brewing will have local craft beer for sale.
The Sourland Mountain Festival is organized and staffed almost entirely by volunteers, many of whom have been involved for several years. East Amwell’s volunteer rescue squad will be on-site to support safety throughout the day, and accessible parking will be available near the festival entrance.
Festival co-chair Aditi Bhogal said that proceeds from the festival support the Sourland Conservancy’s efforts to protect and preserve the region.
Tickets are available now at sourlandmountainfest.com/tickets. General admission includes access to all performances, as well as activities and vendors.
A rainbow appears above a previous year's Sourland Mountain Festival. (Photo courtesy of the Sourland Conservancy.),
