Forest Trail Music Festival Returns to Free Soil for Its Sixth Year, August 22–24
FREE SOIL, MICHIGAN — The Forest Trail Music Festival is set to make its highly anticipated return for a sixth year, drawing music lovers, campers, and community seekers to the scenic edge of the Manistee National Forest from August 22–24, with an exclusive early-admission day on August 21.
Live Music in the Forest: 2025 Festival Lineup
This year’s festival will once again deliver a stellar lineup of award-winning performers and Michigan-based talent. The 2025 headliners include:
- Myron Elkins
- The Gasoline Gypsies
- Brother Crowe
- Candid Antics
- Mark Lavengood Band
- Nathan Walton and The Remedy
Fans arriving early on Thursday, August 21, will be treated to a special performance by Grace Theisen, exclusively for volunteers and early-access ticket holders.
More Than Just Music: Community, Camping & Creativity
Held at 352 W. Forest Trail Road, the festival grounds lie perfectly nestled between Manistee and Ludington, offering a natural haven for attendees to connect over more than just music.
Activities include:
- Weekend camping under the stars
- Tie-dye workshops and yoga sessions
- Craft and food vendors showcasing local flavor
- A new stage setup and exciting site upgrades for 2025
Festival co-founder Noah Cameron describes the event as a much-needed retreat from the noise of the modern world.
“It’s the perfect place to bring your old friends and make some new ones,” Cameron said. “Everyone comes together and celebrates good things for the right reasons.”
Grassroots Spirit and Ticket Info
Built on community values and inspired by festivals like Wheatland and Hoxeyville, the Forest Trail Music Festival remains grassroots and artist-focused.
Co-founder Bryce Cameron emphasized their commitment to affordable, transparent pricing:
“Almost all of our ticket sales go directly toward supporting the performing artists… You won’t find our tickets on Ticketmaster or Stubhub. We aren’t in this to make a profit — it’s all about bringing the community together.”
Tickets for 2025 are priced as follows:
- General admission (weekend): $75
- Early admission upgrade (Aug. 21): $30
- Single-day pass: $40
- RV pass required for large campers or motorhomes
- Children 12 and under: Free with adult entry
A new merchandise bundle giveaway is available for guests who refer a first-time attendee during the checkout process.
A Festival With Heart and Purpose
Beyond the music and activities, the Forest Trail Music Festival is about restoring human connection in a peaceful, rustic environment.
“It becomes easier to see that we all have a lot more in common… when we’re face to face listening to great music and enjoying each other’s company in the forest,” Cameron added. “It sure beats arguing over the latest news on social media.”
Thinking of attending? Visit the official site for the full lineup, camping info, and festival schedule at foresttrailmusic.com.
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