High Sierra Music FestivalNature-infused music festival blends jam bands and art.

Here’s what you need to know about the High Sierra Music Festival, an amazing four-day event that takes over Quincy, California, every summer.

Music and Artists

High Sierra is a multi-genre festival, but it leans heavily into:

• Jam bands
• Bluegrass
• Rock
• Funk
• Americana

Some past big names include:

• Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit
• Marcus King
• Cory Wong
• Galactic feat. Anjelika Joseph
• The Infamous Stringdusters
• Lotus
• The Del McCoury Band

Stage setups range from intimate acoustic settings to large, high-energy outdoor spaces. There's something really special about the "Artist at Large" tradition, where certain performers like Sierra Hull join multiple bands over the weekend.

Location

The festival is hosted at the Plumas County Fairgrounds in Quincy, California. It’s surrounded by the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains, giving off the ultimate “nature meets music” vibe. The space is cozy, with grassy fields, trees for shade, and tons of space for dancing or lounging. The venue transforms with art installations and stage decorations, creating a unique world just for the festival.

Art Installations

High Sierra goes beyond music with a big focus on interactive art. From fire shows to parades and beautifully themed stages, there’s no shortage of visual spectacles. Artists often collaborate with musicians to bring spontaneous performances to life.

Festival Experience

Multiple Stages

You’ve got several stages, each with its own personality:

• Main Stage: Where the headliners rock out.
• Big Meadow: Often more experimental, funk, or electronic.
• Vaudeville Tent: For acoustic sets and late-night jams.

Food and Drinks

Food here covers everything from festival staples like pizza and tacos to local California treats and organic vegan fare. Expect refreshing drinks to keep you going, including craft beer, smoothies, and plenty of hydration stations.

Fashion and Culture

The festival crowd is a mix of laid-back, hippie vibes with a splash of colorful festival gear. Think flowy clothes, tie-dye, and comfy festival footwear.

Workshops and Activities

There are loads of workshops and activities to keep you busy:

• Yoga sessions
• Music workshops
• Drum circles
• Art and craft sessions

Camping

Camping is a huge part of the High Sierra experience. You can choose from general tent camping to more luxe options with RV hookups and VIP camping zones. Amenities include showers, bathrooms, and even a family-friendly area.

Tickets and Attendance

High Sierra draws around 10,000 attendees each year. You can grab tickets for the full four days or single-day passes. For those wanting the full VIP treatment, FestivALL passes include perks like access to exclusive shows, camping amenities, and late-night jams.

History

The festival kicked off in 1991, with a vision to blend jam bands, roots music, and a laid-back vibe in a beautiful natural setting. Over the years, it has grown in size but kept its intimate, family-friendly feel, with a focus on great music and a tight-knit community.

Sustainability Efforts

High Sierra has solid environmental practices, like a strong recycling program, composting, and reusable water stations. They encourage carpooling or using the local shuttle service to cut down on emissions, showing their commitment to keeping the environment as vibrant as the festival itself.