Pickathon is for the kids! We have so much programming for families, in fact, that we’ve created an entire kids festival inside a festival! Our family-focused Coyote Neighborhood, in the woods above Cherry Hill, has been a huge hit for the past two years. Kids of all ages gather for exclusive performances and fun family activities from our Family Music Lineup. Beloved Portland “kindie” performer Red Yarn curates the Coyote experience alongside a dedicated team of artists and educators.
We are happy to announce Pickathon’s 2024 Family Lineup for August 1-4, 2024 in Happy Valley, Oregon! Read on to learn more!
Dive into Adventure in the Coyote Neighborhood!
This year, the Coyote Neighborhood will transform into an ocean adventureland, with nautical-themed play structures, stage sets, and decorations built by Cedarwood Waldorf School and our resident artists. Our fearless leader, Captain Coyote, will come to life as a mascot costume designed by Faerindipity Fae. Children will immerse themselves in imaginative play as they explore the musical seas of Pendarvis Farm!
The Coyote Stage will host interactive performances by renowned family artists all day long on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Highlights include New York’s GRAMMY-winning, bilingual jazz artist Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats, Chicago’s Filipina-American folk-rocker Little Miss Ann, and Portland’s own blues legend, Norman Sylvester, performing his blues-in-schools program.
Tucson honky-tonker Mamma Coal will bring some “kids’ country,” and Mr. Sam & the People People, sharing members with Pickathon mainstage artists Dean Johnson and Bella White, will put on an exclusive family show. Portland kindie favorites Red Yarn, Kelli Welli, and Triple Rainbow (Jared Mees and his two daughters) will round out the bill.
In the late afternoon, the stage will shift toward youth programming with the Friends of Noise DIY Takeover. Teen bands Petrichor, charliehorse, Jousting, and the Red Strings will bring the vibes, along with the My Voice Music Artist Showcase, featuring their young students, volunteers and staff.
Our family music offerings won’t be limited to the Coyote Stage. Nikki Brown Clown & Ladybug, Mr. Ben, Mo Phillips, Zazzy Zoe, Tallulah’s Daddy and Captain James will all grace the Rowdy Pony Stage — when it’s not in use by young buskers!
Music Together of Portland will offer music classes each morning, while My Voice Music will lead workshops and facilitate a talent show on Sunday. Keeping it all running smoothly and sounding lovely will be the dedicated young sound engineers of Friends of Noise.
Activities Galore for Every Age
Complementing the vibrant music and performances tailored for families, Pickathon offers a diverse array of activities suitable for all ages. Whether you’re seeking sensory experiences, embracing the summer spirit, or simply looking for adventure and fun, there’s something for everyone at the festival.
Returning favorites like Trackers Earth will lead wilderness adventures, teaching foam archery, hands-on folk crafts, and immersive role-playing games. Family Yoga with Shawna provides a grounding start to each day, blending movement with engaging stories.
Crafty Critters will spark creativity with interactive crafts suitable for kids of all ages, while Sellwood Community House has curated activities designed specifically for teens and tweens. Meanwhile, Matt, The Traveling Typist, invites participants to collaborate on imaginative stories using vintage typewriters.
Whether you’re enjoying foam archery with Trackers Earth, exploring crafts with Crafty Critters, or finding your zen with Family Yoga, there’s no shortage of engaging activities. And for those seeking solo adventures or eager to meet new friends, Pickathon provides the perfect setting to make lasting memories and embrace the spirit of summer fun.
For families with very young children, we offer the Bridgetown Baby Family Feeding Nest, a shady oasis in the woods where nursing parents can unwind and recharge. And for those seeking a bit of adult time, Cedarwood Waldorf School provides drop-off childcare sessions at their charming school nestled in the forest.
Music and Performances Tailored for Families
What makes Pickathon truly special is its inclusive appeal to all ages. With a diverse lineup of performers and a plethora of activities to experience throughout the day, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at the festival.
From sun up to sun down on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, the Coyote Stage will host interactive performances by renowned family artists. Whether you’re dancing, sitting, or just soaking in the vibes, it’s a choose-your-own-adventure experience where you can come and go as you please.
Pickathon invites you to reconnect with nature and be inspired by the enchanting music against a stunning 80-acre backdrop. It’s a place where smiles and laughter abound, and you can get as involved as you want, or simply sit back and enjoy the moment.
More Than Just Music at Pickathon
At Pickathon, the magic extends far beyond the music. It’s a place where lifelong friendships are forged amidst the backdrop of enchanting performances and unique experiences. From intimate conversations to impromptu dance parties, every moment is an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for music and adventure.
But it’s not just about the people you meet; it’s also about the special touches that elevate your festival experience to new heights. Picture yourself lounging in a hammock nestled among the trees, sipping on a craft cocktail from one of our artisanal bars, or indulging in a rejuvenating massage at our wellness retreat. These are just a few examples of the thoughtful amenities and services designed to ensure your comfort and relaxation throughout the weekend.
And let’s not forget about the dancing! Whether you’re grooving to the beats of your favorite band or busting out your best moves at one of our themed dance parties, there’s no shortage of opportunities to let loose and express yourself on the dance floor. With multiple stages featuring a diverse lineup of artists, you’re free to curate your own musical adventure and discover new sounds at every turn.
So come join us at Pickathon, where every moment is a chance to unwind, connect, and embrace the magic of live music in the great outdoors. With endless opportunities for relaxation, dancing, and exploration, the only limit is your imagination.
See you in the Coyote Neighborhood, young explorers! Follow us @pickathon for real-time updates.
Secure your Pickathon tickets and prepare for an unforgettable family adventure August 1-4 in Happy Valley, Oregon! Kids 12 and under attend for free, and teens 13-16 enjoy half-price admission for the weekend.
PS – In case you missed it! Daily Stage Schedules are now live! These schedules cover daily music performances only. Stay tuned for more schedules covering DJ sets, wellness activities, curated sessions, and literary events, all coming soon! Pro-tip – grab a camping pass so you don’t skip a beat!
