Festival

What is it about Eaglewood that keeps folks returning each year?

Those of us who know and  love the festival return faithfully every year for another good dose of “fresh air, good vibes and great music!” None can deny the charm of the place, with the familiar landmarks; the ducks in the big pond, the woodsy trails, the front deck of Marilyn’s house that is transformed into the Jackie Washington stage. I know I’m not the only one drawn back to Eaglewood.   I have a very soft spot for this lovely place. I know all the trails because I ride my horse here.  My kids grew up with this festival, played for hours in the playground and earned all their volunteer community hours here. Even though we live only eight minutes down the road, we camp all weekend, usually in campsite D. I love the musical magic that occurs at the two smaller stages…there is such an intimacy there between audience and artist.  My husband and I love wandering the moonlit trails after midnight, from one campfire song circle to the next. After three days at the festival, I feel like I have been meditating or been away on vacation for a whole week!
For me, the Eaglewood Folk Festival is about the people…it’s about the property owner Marilyn; it’s all about those familiar faces who come back every year; it’s about each person who comes to camp, to jam, to volunteer, to entertain, to meet up with old friends, to discover new artists, to experience authentic music, to share the weekend magic.
I saw a comment on a photo posted on Eaglewood’s facebook group proclaiming the wooded trail heading back to the campsites as the “best place in the world”. In my heart, I know this is true, at least for the three festival days that occur on the fourth weekend of every August.  What does the Eaglewood experience mean to you?  I invite you to share your comments.

Denise Sheedy, President Eaglewood Folk Festival