jeff at bandshell
History of the Lake County Folk Festival

by Jeff Friberg

As with all good stories, there is fact, there is fiction and extenuating circumstances. Here are the facts, as best as I can remember.
In 1997, the dream became a reality in a gathering of a family of friends that produced Lake County's First Annual Folk Festival. It was a day of music and magic moments among the hay bales at Uncle Donald's farm in Lady Lake (now called The Villages).
Three more gatherings were held under autumn skies at Uncle Donald's, each with its own flavor and fun. We were proud to associate with such noble spirits.
But, in 2001, a loose-knit family of friends formed Public Arts and Music. Under the umbrella of Eustis Main Street and with the cooperation of the City of Eustis, the festival moved to the beautiful, historic downtown.
Last year's festival was voted in the top 5 of Florida's folk festivals. This year we're looking at the best ever with expanded stages, more workshops and "Who's Who" in Florida acoustic music.
Produced in cooperation with the city of Eustis, Eustis Main Street, and Public Arts & Music, this year's festival will be Lake County's 8th Annual Folk Festival and the family of friends invites you to join in our celebration on the shores of the lake and in the streets of historic downtown.
As a non-profit, sponsored festival we encourage any support you may offer in: time, money, or in-kind contributions. Call 352-589-8313 or e-mail us, and mark your calendar for the second weekend in October. Come see what Eustis is all about.
 
 
Sincerely
Jeffrey R.Friberg