Nelsonville Music Festival 2025

The Nelsonville Music Festival 2025 (NMF) is set to return for its 19th edition from June 20 to 22, 2025, at the picturesque Snow Fork Event Center in Southeast Ohio. Organized by Stuart’s Opera House, a historic non-profit theater and arts education center in Nelsonville, the festival has earned acclaim as “one of the best-kept secrets of the U.S. music festival circuit” by Billboard Magazine. With over 50 performances across four stages, Nelsonville Music Festival 2025 2025 promises a diverse lineup of national, regional, and local acts, alongside camping, family-friendly activities, artisan vendors, and a commitment to environmental sustainability.

A Rich History and Mission

Since its inception, NMF has been more than just a music festival. It serves as a fundraiser for Stuart’s Opera House, supporting year-round arts education programs that are tuition-free for school-aged children in Southeast Ohio. The festival's mission intertwines cultural enrichment with community development, ensuring that every ticket purchased contributes to the region's artistic growth.

The Nelsonville Music Festival 2025 Lineup: A Blend of Genres and Talent

NMF 2025 boasts an eclectic mix of artists spanning various genres:

• Waxahatchee: Led by singer-songwriter Katie Crutchfield, Waxahatchee's 2024 album Tigers Blood received critical acclaim, landing in the top 10 best-of lists by Pitchfork, MOJO, and Consequence. 
• MJ Lenderman: An indie folk and roots rock artist from Asheville, North Carolina, Lenderman's 2024 solo album Manning Fireworks was lauded by The New Yorker, Pitchfork, Rolling Stone, and NPR. 
• Charley Crockett: Bringing his unique blend of country, blues, and soul, Crockett is set to deliver a headlining performance that showcases his rich musical heritage.

Festival Experience: More Than Just Music

Set against the backdrop of the rolling hills of Southeast Ohio and the Wayne National Forest, NMF offers attendees an immersive experience:

• Stages: Four stages, including the intimate No-Fi Cabin—a historic one-room schoolhouse without electricity—provide diverse settings for performances. 
• Camping: The festival offers various camping options, from the lively "Loud Mudville" to the serene "Quiet Mudville," accommodating different attendee preferences. 
• Family-Friendly Activities: Children 12 and under enjoy free admission, with a dedicated kids' area featuring music workshops, puppet shows, and a community mural project. 
• Artisan Vendors: Local and regional artisans offer handmade goods, including jewelry, art, and organic food, enriching the festival's cultural tapestry. 

Sustainability Initiatives

Nelsonville Music Festival 2025 is committed to environmental stewardship:

• Zero Waste: Partnering with Rural Action, the festival diverts over 92% of waste from landfills through comprehensive recycling and composting programs. 
• Reusable Resources: Attendees are encouraged to use reusable cups and water bottles, with free water stations available throughout the grounds. 

Nelsonville Music Festival 2025: Ticketing and Accessibility

Tickets for Nelsonville Music Festival 2025 2025 are available at various tiers:

• Weekend Pass: Starting at $190, this pass grants access to all performances and festival amenities.
• VIP Weekend Pass: Starting at $375, VIP attendees enjoy additional perks, including a covered seating area, premium stage views, complimentary snacks, and exclusive restroom facilities.
• Teen Passes: Available at discounted rates for ages 13-17.
• Resident Passes: Nelsonville and Buchtel residents can purchase discounted passes for $85, available in-person at Stuart’s Opera House. 

The festival grounds are ADA accessible, ensuring an inclusive experience for all attendees. 

FAQs for the Nelsonville Music Festival 2025

Here are the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) for the Nelsonville Music Festival 2025, designed to help you plan your experience at Snow Fork Event Center in Southeast Ohio from June 20–22, 2025.

What amenities are provided at the campground?

Campgrounds offer portable toilets, handwash stations, showers (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, $5 for a 7-minute shower), and a water refill station. Ice, firewood, and other sundry items are available at Camping Headquarters. 

Can I bring alcohol to the campground?

Campers aged 21 and over may bring their own alcohol into the campgrounds. However, kegs and glass containers are prohibited. Outside alcohol cannot be brought from the campsites into the festival venue. 

Can I move my RV once it's parked?

No, RVs must remain parked until they exit the festival for good. Moving your RV will forfeit your spot. 

Is gasoline available on-site?

No, gasoline is not available on-site. Please ensure your RV is fueled before arriving.

What is the nearest airport?

The closest airport is Port Columbus International Airport (CMH), approximately an hour by car and an hour and forty minutes by bus. 

Are shuttles provided from the airport?

No official shuttles are provided. However, the GoBus departs from CMH twice daily. Disembark at the Nelsonville Hocking College Bookstore stop and use a rideshare service from there. 

Can I use rideshare services?

Yes, Uber, Lyft, local cabs, and other rideshare companies can drop off and pick up near the Lower Road entrance. Avoid using the camping entrance at the Upper Road.

What emergency services are on-site?

Emergency medical personnel and security are available 24/7. In case of an emergency, call 911, find a uniformed officer or staff member, or go to the admissions or medical tent. 

Where is lost and found located?

Lost and found is at the admission tent at the main entrance. If you lose or find something, please check or drop it off there.

Is NMF family-friendly?

Absolutely! Children 12 and under are admitted free with a ticketed adult. Teen passes (ages 13–17) are available at a discounted rate. A dedicated quiet/family camping area is also offered. 

What activities are available for kids?

The festival features a kids' area with music workshops, puppet shows, and a community mural project. Partnerships with local organizations provide a cozy family care space for resting, nursing, and playing.

What food options are available?

A variety of vendors offer diverse and reasonably priced food and beverages, including vegetarian and vegan options. Unauthorized food vendors are not permitted. 

Conclusion

The Nelsonville Music Festival 2025 promises a harmonious blend of music, community engagement, and environmental consciousness. Whether you're a long-time attendee or a first-time visitor, NMF offers an unforgettable experience that resonates beyond the music. Join us in celebrating the arts, supporting education, and embracing sustainability in the heart of Southeast Ohio.

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