Philadelphia Folk Music Festival turns 55

    Once again tens of thousands of music enthusiasts arrived at the Pool Farm in Upper Salford Township this weekend for the 55th Philadelphia Folk Music Festival.

    It is the longest-running festival of its kind in North America, originating on the Colket Wilson Farm in Paoli in 1962.

    The festival has showcased a broad spectrum of talent from new and local artists to music legends past and present. Bonnie Raitt, Judy Collins, Richie Havens, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Odetta, and The Band are a sampling of performers who have entertained the loyal crowds.

    This year’s headliners included Los Lobos, Buffy Sainte-Marie, and Iris DeMent.

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    The Festival’s campgrounds have drawn generations of family members, created lifelong friendships, and spawned an eclectic variety of campsite styles.

    On a sad note Philadelphia Folk music icon, and one of the festival’s founders, Gene Shay was ill and unable to attend this year. Co-emcee Wesley Stace filled in, alternating between singing about Donald Trump’s hair and introducing the performers.

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