Alaqua Animal Refuge in Freeport plans bluegrass festival fundraiser

The Nov. 8 event features Grammy-nominated Sister Sadie and family activities to benefit animal rescue operations.

Alaqua Animal Refuge will host its Bluegrass Barn Jam & Fall Fest on Saturday, November 8, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the organization’s property in Freeport.

  • The family-friendly celebration will feature live bluegrass music, food vendors, children’s activities, hayrides and more, with proceeds supporting Alaqua’s mission of providing shelter, safety and second chances for animals in need.

The event will span two areas of the refuge property. Angel’s Arena will host more than six hours of continuous music, headlined by Sister Sadie, a Grammy-nominated band that has earned three IBMA Vocal Group of the Year Awards and performs regularly at the Grand Ole Opry. The all female group has received two Grammy nominations and headlines major roots festivals.

Additional musical performances will include Goodbye to Sunshine and Black Creek Strings Band. The venue offers both general admission and VIP ticketing options.

  • The back acreage will feature the Fall Fest portion of the event, including a second stage with bluegrass music and jam sessions where attendees can bring their own instruments. Christian school performances are also scheduled.

Family activities will include food trucks, a full bar, local vendors, fall-themed photo opportunities, festive crafts, hayrides, face painting, a corn pit and various games for children. Visitors will also have opportunities for animal encounters with the refuge’s rescued animals.

More information about the event is available here.

PROMOTION

Join the conversation...

Continue reading 👇

Community Comments

“What great memories. Thank you for sharing.”
Respond
Scott Schaeffler commented on WordroW: October 28, 2026
“fail, argh”
Respond
“Hello fellow divers! What depth will this beauty be laid to rest.?????”
Respond
“My FREND of close to 70 years and I went on a European tour n the summer of 1965 and sailed out of NYC aboard this ship,,,,,she stll lives n...”
Respond
Sue Schaeffler commented on WordroW: October 26, 2026
“1:58, 6 attempts”
Respond
“Another article and still no mention of motive? The article is literally a repeat of the previous article.”
Respond
“I recall one of the arguments for the need of an additional 1/2 cent tax was due to the extra cost of COVID modifications and procedures, and I supported it...”
Respond
“EFCU is very generous with donations but screw their members with low interest rates on their accounts. How about giving back to your members.”
Respond
“Trusting in Trey Goodwin = INSANITY defined!! Year after year of empty promises... He's "frustrated". He doesn't know how to get it done - so it's about time to replace...”
Respond
Scott Schaeffler commented on WordroW: October 23, 2026
“2:40, 6 attempts”
Respond

GET OUR FREE LOCAL NEWSLETTER

Get the weekday email that actually makes reading local news enjoyable again.