10/15/2025
We will be there! Come get some Big O Fish!
Get ready for a deep dive into the heart of the Ozarks! The Old Time Music, Ozark Heritage Festival is returning for its 31st year, celebrating the deep-rooted musical traditions and culture of the region. This is more than just a festival—it's a free community event built on a love for music that has been passed down for generations.
Join us in downtown West Plains, MO, on Friday and Saturday, October 17 & 18. The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day, with music starting at noon.
Featured Performances
We're thrilled to present a full lineup of musicians, from beloved festival veterans to new faces.
Headliners:
Friday: The Creek Rocks will take the stage as our Friday headliner at 8 p.m. in the theater.
Saturday: The Wheelhouse Rousters will close out the festival as our Saturday headliner, also at 8 p.m. in the theater.
And so many more:
The Colbert Brothers: Hailing from Willow Springs, this family trio carries on a tradition that started with their grandfather, who traveled by horse and wagon to the Ozarks during the Depression. Their unique "two-finger" banjo roll is not to be missed.
Duane Porterfield: A former National Mountain Dulcimer Champion and the 2023 Arkansas State Old Time Banjo Champion, Duane will share his passion for folk instruments that he discovered after a childhood promise from his parents to "stick with it."
The Roe Family Singers: From Minnesota, this "Good-Time, Old-Time Hillbilly band" has been making music for 20 years, bringing their award-winning banjo, autoharp, and Appalachian clogging to the stage.
Shortleaf Band: Rooted in the traditional music of the "Scots Irish" who settled the region, Michael Fraser (a founding member of this very festival!) and Tenley Fraser share their love for the Ozarks through song.
Stones River Reelers: This pedigreed old-time band from Tennessee promises "century-old music without any of the ailments" and some good "cleanish humor." You'll hear the unique sounds of harmonica, fiddle, banjo, and flat-top guitar.
Down Yonder: This traditional string band from Hardy, Arkansas, features local West Plains musician Don Reed and fiddler Ginger Harden, who bring a sweet and authentic Ozark sound to life.
The Undergrass Boys: Formed in 1978, this legendary bluegrass fusion group has toured with icons like Emmy Lou Harris and John Hartford. Catch the founding members as they perform their signature multi-instrumental, vocal blend.
Auntie Em and the Tornadoes: Featuring singer-songwriter Emily Higgins along with two former members of The Undergrass Boys, this group delivers tight harmonies and joyful folk music that will have you on your feet.
Don't miss this opportunity to celebrate, preserve, and pass on the unique music and traditions of the Ozark Highlands. This signature event for the City of West Plains is a testament to the enduring power of community and culture.
Mark your calendars, share this post with your friends, and we'll see you there! For more details, visit https://www.oldtimemusic.org/
