Scenic Albany, Vermont, plays host to the annual Northeast Kingdom Music Festival each August. In addition to over two dozen musical performers spanning rock to new age and world music genres, the festival includes a poetry slam, magician shows, group yoga sessions and an ornate opening ceremony featuring fire sculptures. Seating is offered with the general admission price. The festival occurs rain or shine, and hot and cold beverage and food concessions are available on site, which include vegan options. On-site security, a medic tent and fresh water are also available for guests.
The week-long Boston Early Music Festival is held every summer at venues throughout the city. The early music genre includes millennia-old styles including Gregorian chants and music of the Baroque period performed on historically appropriate instruments. Admission costs vary according to the events, which include performances by established and emerging artists as well as world-renowned ensembles. The Times of London has lauded the BEMF as the world's foremost festival of early music. The festival also includes guest lectures, demonstrations, instrument workshops and performance master classes.
The New England Folk Festival has been held annually in Mansfield, Massachusetts, since 1944. The three-day event includes a variety of family-oriented activities including crafts, food, jam sessions, cultural workshops and networking events. A single admission price allows guests access to the entire event. The festival's discussion sessions are open to folk callers, genre academics as well as storytellers. Over a dozen food vendors supply ethnic and American style food. Live performances include longsword and garland dancers, acoustic instrumentalists, and ethnic dance groups. A bazaar is also located on the festival grounds, where artists sell their books, recordings, clothing and other handmade items.
The 2010 Greater Hartford Festival of Jazz marked the event's 20th anniversary. The three-day event is an admission-free festival that in the past has featured the George Shearing Quintet, the Duke Ellington Orchestra and jazz legend Dave Brubeck. Many concerts take place during the sunset hours at the city's famous Bushnell Park, where guests can bring a picnic meal. The event is attended by over 40,000 fans annually, making it the largest free jazz festival in the Northeast.