Will McLean (1919-1990) is widely considered to be the "Father of Florida Folk" He is also referred to as "Florida's Black Hat Troubadour".. This long-running annual folk festival began after his death, and continues as one of the premier folk festivals in the country.

The acoustic music festival, held outside at the Sertoma Youth Ranch near Brooksville, attracts the best folk musicians from all over the state. The list of performers and songwriters are a select group chosen from numerous applications - with preference given to Florida based musicians. The event also hosts a young performers program. Song writers and composers are encouraged to submit their original songs about Florida for entry in the Annual Song Contest.

The venue provides overnight camping facilities for musicians and attendees - but reservations must be made well in advance. The grounds of the Sertoma Youth Ranch is almost entirely shaded under a canopy of oak trees, with ample space for arts and crafts booths and a variety of food vendors. Musical performances are held at four separate stages scattered around the festival grounds ... the Magnolia Stage, the Cypress Stage, the Azalea Stage, and the Shooting Star Stage.

Musical and songwriting workshops are held throughout the three-day event, with topics such as mountain dulcimer, harmonica techniques, guitar playing, banjo workshops, and lyric writing seminars. It is not uncommon to find impromptu groups of musicians gathering together in the campground or other areas to jam and party late into the wee hours.Activities & Facilities

RestaurantPicnic shelterDogs allowedArts/crafts vendorsLive musicShort hiking trailsTent camping

• Will McLean Music Festival official website

Note: The dates of annual events and festivals are subject to change from year to year. Before planning your trip, be sure to check the links above for the actual dates, times, and schedule of activities.