Like most events in 2020, the inaugural Sol Grass Music Festival on Washington Island had to be canceled, but the two-day bluegrass event is trying to make a comeback. The first annual Sol Grass Music Festival will now occur at the Washington Island Campground on June 25th and 26th. Backroads Events in Colorado is putting on the festival. Marketing Director Erin Larwick emphasizes the need to be flexible, as they have been conscientious of the current climate. Larwick is wary of finalizing details and creating expectations. 

While modifying an event to comply with CDC guidelines can be a challenge for anybody, Larwick believes Washington Island has some inherent advantages for social distancing. 

Music will begin in the afternoons, offering event-goers the chance to explore the island during the day. Larwick’s business partner at Backroads, Pat Schmidt, was inspired to place the event at Washington Island after spending summers in the town where much of her family resides. One guarantee about the event is that it will be rich in Wisconsin flavor. Local brewers will provide drinks, and the music line-up is mostly Wisconsin classic and progressive bluegrass bands. 

Bands performing include: 

• The Cherry Pickers
• Chicken Wire Empire
• Armchair Boogie
• Sortin’ the Mall
• Pine Travelers
• The Cody Sisters Band 
• Chain Station
• Miles over Mountains 
• Humbird