Article Contributed by Rooster Walk
Published on 2026-10-20
Two of the most requested artists in Rooster Walk's annual fan survey, Daniel Donato's Cosmic Country and Andy Frasco & The U.N., lead the first band announcement for the 17th annual Rooster Walk Music & Arts Festival, set for May 27–30, 2027, at Pop's Farm in Martinsville, Virginia.
Recently voted “Best Festival” in Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine's seven-state readers' choice awards, Rooster Walk is preparing for another four-day celebration of music, art and community over Memorial Day weekend.
Returning to Rooster Walk for the sixth consecutive year, Daniel Donato's Cosmic Country has become a festival favorite thanks to its exhilarating blend of improvisational rock, psychedelic exploration and traditional country influences. Led by guitar virtuoso Daniel Donato, the band has built a devoted national following through its high-energy performances and distinctive sound, which Donato calls “Cosmic Country.”
Making their third Rooster Walk appearance, Andy Frasco & The U.N. are a genre-blending rock 'n' roll powerhouse renowned for their wildly entertaining live shows. Led by charismatic frontman Andy Frasco, the band combines infectious grooves, boundless energy and spontaneous audience interaction to create performances that are equal parts concert and celebration. A favorite on the national festival circuit, Frasco and his band last performed at Rooster Walk in 2025, and their return promises another unforgettable experience at Pop's Farm.
Keller & The Keels brings together Keller Williams and bluegrass duo Larry and Jenny Keel for acoustic takes on bluegrass, folk and familiar favorites.
Other notable additions include Saxsquatch, the saxophone-playing sensation whose unique combination of electronic dance music, live saxophone and larger-than-life stage presence has earned a devoted following; psychedelic funk and rock quartet Dizgo; and Kanika Moore Band, led by the powerhouse vocalist known for her soulful performances and work with the nationally touring funk-rock group Doom Flamingo.
Additional artists announced today include: Trey Hensley Band, featuring the acclaimed guitarist and vocalist known for his exceptional flatpicking and roots-music chops; Bella Rayne Band; Wolph; Sol Driven Train, a longtime touring favorite known for its eclectic blend of roots rock, funk and horn-driven grooves; 65 North Pickers; Moga Family Band; Ettore Buzzini; Empire Strikes Brass, an Asheville-based brass ensemble delivering a high-energy mix of funk, soul and New Orleans-inspired sounds; Phat Laces; Griffin; and Big Fat Gap, a North Carolina bluegrass favorite.
The announcement also includes DJ What and magician Hunter Rhodes, bringing additional late-night entertainment and variety to the festival's programming.
“Our fans play a huge role in shaping the Rooster Walk lineup, and Daniel Donato and Andy Frasco were two of the most requested artists in this year's fan survey,” said Johnny Buck, executive director of Rooster Walk Inc. “Our fans made it clear they wanted both bands back at Pop's Farm, and we're thrilled to make that happen. With so much great music already announced, and some of our biggest names still to come, we're incredibly excited about what Rooster Walk 17 is shaping up to be.”
Three of the festival's six highest-billed acts, including its top headliner, have yet to be announced. The full lineup is expected to feature approximately 45 artists performing around 100 sets over four days, May 27–30, 2027.
Rooster Walk is a four-day, family-friendly music and arts festival held Memorial Day weekend at Pop's Farm in Martinsville, Virginia. The festival features nationally touring artists, rising talent and regional favorites across six stages, along with camping, outdoor activities, food, craft beer and children's programming.
Rooster Walk has been named one of Virginia's Top 5 festivals by the Richmond Times-Dispatch and the region's Most Creative Charitable Event by Virginia Living readers for three consecutive years.
Founded in memory of Martinsville natives Edwin “The Rooster” Penn and Walker Shank, Rooster Walk combines live music with a commitment to its community.
Festival proceeds support local and regional causes, including the Penn-Shank Memorial Endowment Scholarship Fund and the Rooster Walk Music Instrument Program for public school bands in Martinsville and Henry County.
Rooster Walk Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has donated more than $400,000 to local and regional charitable causes since 2009.
Rooster Walk 17 — Event & Ticket Information
May 27–30, 2027
Pop's Farm — Martinsville, Virginia
Four-day, family-friendly music and arts festival
All Rooster Walk 17 ticket options, including camping and parking passes, are now on sale. Discounted Early Bird admission tickets give fans an opportunity to lock in lower prices.
For complete ticketing information and available pass options, visit roosterwalk.com/tickets. For lineup updates, subscribe at roosterwalk.com/subscribe.
