Article Contributed by Omni Arts Group
Published on 2026-04-03
The Folky Fish Fest is back on May 29 & 30, 2026, bringing a hand-picked lineup of acclaimed and emerging artists to the beautiful setting of Maramec Spring Park in St. James, Missouri.
The 2026 Folky Fish Festival lineup features: Kyle Tuttle Band, The Dillards, The David Mayfield Parade, Pert Near Sandstone, The Hillbenders, Lonesome Ace Stringband, Catgut, Chris Walz, Betse & Clarke String Band, Michael Prewitt & CrunchGrass Supreme, John Depew Trio, National Park Radio, The Ozark Snappers, Dan Eubanks, Lukas Simpson, Matt Schmidt, Andrew Morris & Swamp Things & The Hammer and The Hatchet
Held at one of the most beautiful natural venues in the state, which is home to the fifth-largest spring in Missouri, Folky Fish Fest is more than a music event. What began as a small passion project has evolved into a community driven effort to support musical education and lifelong learning through the newly established Adam Yount–John Hotze Memorial Fund.
“What started as a little project took on new meaning when The James Foundation and Wes Swee offered up a partnership for our purpose,” said festival organizer Lee Watson. “We became an engine for developing a fund that supports musical education almost immediately. It ain’t just about the music.”
The Adam Yount–John Hotze Memorial Fund will directly support grants, workshops, and music camps for musicians of all ages, honoring the legacies of two influential figures whose generosity, artistry, and mentorship shaped Folky Fish. The Jam Camp is held the day before the festival and offers instruction to over 40 kids.
The Folky Fish Fest name and spirit goes back to the original event founded in 2012 by Luke and Angie Simpson in Indiana. Their vision centered on community, authenticity, and roots music continues to guide the festival’s musical direction today.
“The name and much of the musical direction and purpose are a reflection of my friendship with Luke and Angie Simpson,” Watson added. “What they built is being folded into our new recipe.”
Set within the rolling landscape of the Maramec River Valley, the festival offers a family friendly weekend of music, art, vendors, workshops, kids activities and so much more.
For tickets, schedule, Jam Camp sign up and more information, visit folkyfishfest.com
