BELLOWS FALLS—The Next Stage Bandwagon Summer Series presents a Folk, Roots & Americana Music Festival on Saturday, July 18, at Robertson Paper Company Field, 21 Island Street in Bellows Falls. Gates open at 3 p.m., with music beginning at 4 p.m.
The festival brings together three acclaimed acts—The Mammals, Michael Veitch Band, and Doozy Jane—for an afternoon and evening of music rooted in tradition, storytelling, and community connection.
Headlining the festival are The Mammals, whose spirited blend of Americana, folk, and string-band music has earned them a devoted following across generations. Led by Mike Merenda and Ruth Ungar, the group is known for performances that move effortlessly between exuberant dance tunes and intimate ballads. Their 2025 double album, Touch Grass Vol. 1 & 2, explores themes of freedom, kinship, and ecological renewal, reflecting the band’s ongoing commitment to music as a force for connection and positive change.
Also appearing is the Michael Veitch Band, featuring the veteran singer-songwriter whose soaring tenor voice, accomplished guitar work, and deeply personal songwriting have made him a respected figure on the national folk scene. Veitch’s songs explore themes of love, activism, memory, and hope, delivered with warmth, humor, and authenticity.
Opening the festival is Doozy Jane, a dynamic quartet whose lush four-part treble harmonies offer a fresh perspective on American folk traditions. Combining fiddle, clarinet, guitar, and bass, the group performs original compositions and inventive arrangements that draw inspiration from both historic and contemporary voices in folk and popular music.
Together, these artists create a rich tapestry of traditional and modern roots music, celebrating the enduring power of song to tell stories, build community, and inspire listeners.
Food vendors for the event include Smokin’ Bowls, Taza Afghan Foods + Catering, and The Blue Pig. A bar and additional refreshments will also be available.
The Folk, Roots & Americana Music Festival is part of the Bandwagon Summer Series, a family-friendly outdoor performance series presented by Next Stage Arts from June through September. Featuring music, puppetry, circus arts, and cultural events, the series takes place at parks, farms, and community gathering spaces throughout Putney, Brattleboro, Dummerston, and Bellows Falls.
Children under 12 are admitted free to all Bandwagon events. Each performance includes a dedicated play area for kids, making the series welcoming for audiences of all ages. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and picnics to enjoy the relaxed outdoor setting.
The Bandwagon Summer Series is sponsored by M&T Bank, Lawson’s Finest Liquids, the Brattleboro Reformer, Oak Meadow, and Pepsi Brattleboro. This event is sponsored by Vermont Plank Flooring.
Tickets are $28 in advance, $32 at the gate, and free for children under 12. Advance tickets and additional information are available at nextstagearts.org.