Nestled in the Berkshire Mountains, Stephentown is a great spot to launch an Upstate New York excursion. Cherry Plain State Park and Jiminy Peak are within 10 miles of town and offer outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, zip lining, and more. Whether you're a foodie sampling the local fare or outdoor adventure seeker looking for your next thrill, Stephentown has something for you.
The Disc Jam Music Festival is a fusion of a music festival and disc golf tournament which will take place June 8-11 at Gardner's Farm, just outside of Stephentown. It will feature more than 50 bands and music performers on four stages, performing music from a variety of genres. Multiple disc golfing tournaments will also take place including Professional, Amateur, Women's, and Mixed Doubles divisions, with a variety of prizes for the top finishers. A food and vendor marketplace will offer some great meals options and the chance to purchase unique art and handmade items. Patrons will also have access to yoga seminars, art exhibitions, workshops, and more. Those planning on bringing their entire family will love the various kid's activities and vibrant visual arts performances. We got the opportunity to interview Tony Scavone, Founder of the event, to learn about this fusion of disc golf and great music.
RAL: Tell me a little bit about the event.
TS: Disc Jam Music Festival is entering its 7th year in 2017. In the past few years, we've had between 2,000 and 3,000 attendees over the course of the four-day festival. We aim to attract live music fans, funk lovers, and disc golf enthusiasts, to our multi-dimensional festival. What makes Disc Jam unique is the focus on music, arts, and disc golf while creating a smooth vibe that welcomes fans of all ages.
RAL: Take me through a day at the event.
TS: On a typical day, fans of all ages can enjoy yoga workshops, art displays, craft and food vendors, 18 hole disc golf course in the woods, and live music from noon until the wee hours of the morning. Disc Jam provides a variety of activities for all fans to enjoy, and a unique setting nestled in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains.
RAL: What can an attendee expect to find for local lodging?
TS: Local hotels in the Stephentown area offer a variety of amenities, and the Berkshires offer a great selection of B & B's. Typically though, fans camp or stay in an RV at the festival grounds during the weekend.
The best recommendations for local lodging include:
RAL: What does this event mean to the community?
TS: The festival welcomes fans from across New York State and all of New England, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The economy of Stephentown benefits from the additional patronage at hotels, restaurants, gas stations, and convenience stores. There is typically ample lodging as most camp or RV at the event.
We donate a percentage of ticket sales to the local volunteer fire and EMS departments. We also give disc golf discs to the local elementary school's physical education department and work with Strangers Helping Strangers, a 501(c)(3) charity organization that conducts a food drive for the local church that services the needy in town.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
TS: Our festival is perfect for fans of live music and disc golf. It features a welcoming atmosphere, and it's an exciting way to kick off summer. The event's unique character, combined with its lineup of funk, jam, soul, and electronic music, results in a one-of-a-kind event that's ideal for the entire family.
For more information about the Disc Jam Music Festival, please visit the event website.