Old Songs Festival announces this year’s dates

— Photo from Old Songs

An Irish jam session was held at an earlier Old Songs Festival.

ALTAMONT — The 46th annual three-day Old Songs Festival of Traditional Music and Dance will be held on the Altamont fairgrounds on June 26, 27 and 28 this year.

The not-for-profit organization, based in Voorheesville, put out a release this week saying, “Old Songs is a family-friendly festival of folk, traditional, Celtic, and world music and dance, known for its relaxed atmosphere, interactive sessions and workshops, hands-on experience, and participatory nature.”

The event features three main-stage concerts on Friday and Saturday evenings and on Sunday afternoon. Throughout the weekend the days are filled with over 100 workshops, dances, and performances. Also featured are craft, food, and instrument vendors, and a children’s activity area.

The release goes on, “Old Songs encourages everyone to join in! Sing, dance, jam, or just listen and enjoy. Bring your acoustic music instrument and join a jam session, take part in learn-how sessions, classes, sing sacred harp, or try out dancing to our great dance bands.”

School-age children who play an instrument or sing can participate in the “Great Groove Band” during the festival with instruction from music coaches, culminating in a performance on the main stage on Sunday. There is face painting in the Family Activities area, where kids can also work with clay and yarn loops and enjoy musical programming for families.

Tickets may be purchased online at festival.oldsongs.org, by phone at 518-765-2815, or at the festival gate.

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