The 11th annual Blue Ox Music Festival once again filled The Pines Music Park on the outskirts of Eau Claire, from June 26-28. While some wicked weather has marked the beginning of summer in our slice of Wisconsin – days-long bouts of rainstorms and spikes in temperature and humidity were the norm in June – the bluegrass and American festival still welcomed thousands. 

This year's lineup included returning hosts Pert Near Sandstone; the legendary Warren Hayes Band; Americana force Margo Price; icons Greensky Bluegrass; masterful songwriter Amigo the Devil; breakout star Hurray for the Riff Raff; and area favorites Them Coulee Boys, Horseshoes & Hand Grenades, Long Mama, The Spine Stealers, and many others.

Blue Ox is perhaps best known for its intimate feel, cradled in the forested basin of The Pines. The festival welcomes families and folks of all ages to wander its vendor market, participate in workshops and recreational activities, peruse art installations throughout the grounds, and camp on site. (And, this year, also saw local photographer Alexandra Mapes Obrien get married during the festival – wearing pieces made by Eau Claire-based designer, Linyage. Congrats!)

Keep up with Blue Ox Music Festival on socials and learn more at blueoxmusicfestival.com.