Three Upper Valley Music Festivals Set to Take Place This Weekend

This weekend, the Upper Valley will come alive with music as three distinct festivals take place, each offering its own unique vibe and community spirit. From climate-conscious events to collaborative showcases, the region is set for a musical extravaganza.

One of the standout events is the Imagine Zero Festival, taking place on Saturday at Fable Farm in Barnard, Vermont. Spearheaded by Cliff Johnson and Ben Kogan, who met at Woodstock in 2021, the festival is more than just a celebration of music—it’s a bold step toward reducing the environmental impact of large gatherings. Following the success of its inaugural event in May 2023 at SolarFest in Brandon, Vermont, the second edition continues its mission of creating a zero-waste music experience, powered entirely by renewable energy. Johnson noted the challenges of rethinking how festivals are typically run, stating, “It’s just so imprinted…on both sides, it’s conventional and it’s nostalgic,” referring to the deep-rooted traditions of both musicians and audiences.

Meanwhile, the What Doth Rumble Festival kicks off on Saturday and Sunday in White River Junction. Hosted by the Main Street Museum and Windsor-based collective What Doth Life, this two-day event promises a high-energy lineup featuring 22 bands across two stages. In addition to the music, aspiring musicians can take part in workshops throughout the weekend. The festival stems from a collaboration between What Doth Life and the museum, merging their separate events into one large showcase. Joie Finley, the museum’s primary organizer, emphasized the practicality of combining efforts, saying, “It doesn’t make sense to hold two events,” referencing the previous year’s separate festivals.

Finally, the Green Mountain Reggae Festival will bring island vibes to the Bradford Fairground, running from noon on Friday until dusk on Sunday. This brand-new event offers a sprawling lineup of reggae artists and aims to establish itself as a mainstay in Vermont’s festival scene. With a focus on unity and celebration, the festival is set to become a staple for reggae lovers across the region.

Whether it’s innovative environmental initiatives, local band showcases, or the laid-back rhythms of reggae, the Upper Valley is the place to be for music fans this weekend.