Event Review & Photo Gallery: Minnesota Bluegrass August Festival 2025 in Richmond, Minnesota

Sep 4

The family-friendly music-drenched annual event is a warm and welcoming experience for music lovers and musicians alike.

Walking into El Rancho Manana Campgrounds in Richmond, Minnesota felt like stepping into another little world where music floats through the trees and everyone—kiddos, grandparents, first-timers, and old-timers—has a place to belong.

The Minnesota Bluegrass August Festival is put on by the Minnesota Bluegrass and Old-Time Music Association (MBOTMA). The annual event (this was its 45th year!) brings together national touring acts alongside some of the best bands from the Upper Midwest. Over four days and nights, music fills multiple stages with bluegrass, old-time stringband, and other Americana styles. If you like acoustic music, there’s something for you there!

The festival kicks off with a Pre-Festival Jam Camp starting on Tuesday for ages 12 and up, leading into the main event beginning Thursday evening. There are interactive workshops and jams (attendees are encouraged to bring their instruments to the fest!), about 30 hours of music in a natural amphitheater setting, plus food trucks and craft booths.

The atmosphere is family-friendly—there’s even a talent show for kids (who get into the festival free)! There was always something happening, from the workshops to pie-eating contests to open mic sessions, 3am music jams, yoga and my personal favorite: dance classes. (Fun fact: In three days as a photographer, I walked nearly 41,000 steps! Welcome to festival life!) But most of all, the people made it extra special. Every path I wandered led to kind faces and warm moments.

One of the most heartwarming was meeting Kelly, who got his own corner named after him because he’s attended for 20 years in a row!

Maybe I’ll see him next year; it was my first time, but definitely not my last. If you’ve got little ones curious about music or just want a weekend full of joyful surprises, this is such a lovely place to land.