Folk Alley Festival Feature: 30A Songwriters Festival

Good music isn’t just for summer—amazing festivals happen all year long! This winter, we’re spotlighting events that bring warm melodies to cold months, starting with the incredible 30A Songwriters Festival, happening January 16–20, 2025, along Florida’s picturesque Highway 30A.

Now in its 16th year, the 30A Songwriters Festival is a celebration of the art of songwriting, set against the stunning backdrop of Florida’s Emerald Coast. What makes it unique? It’s not your typical festival experience—this event transforms more than 30 venues into intimate spaces for music. From listening rooms and restaurants to outdoor amphitheaters and beachfront stages, every performance feels up close and personal, creating a special connection between artists and audiences.

Each year, the festival hosts a lineup of 200+ artists from diverse genres, blending Grammy winners, up-and-coming talent, and music legends. Of this year’s lineup, Russell Carter, President of Russell Carter Artist Management and Festival Co-Producer says:

“I have had the good fortune to see Melissa Etheridge with her band several times on tour this summer with the Indigo Girls. Melissa is one of the greatest female rock n roll vocalists ever, and her lean mean band is perfectly tuned to support her immense writing and performing talent.” Carter continues, “Can I say how happy I am to get the Jayhawks to swing south all the way from Minneapolis to the panhandle to perform on the main stage – I know they are a favorite of many loyal 30A fans who have requested them for years! …We welcome the Jayhawks – arguably the best living, working Americana band in the country!”

Carter also shares: “We are excited to showcase Maggie Rose with her band at a late night performance Saturday night followed by a headline performance on the main stage Sunday afternoon. Maggie is getting the recognition she deserves with a Grammy nomination for Americana Album of the Year and a Top 100 album ranking by Rolling Stone.

The original members of the dB’s, who reformed for the first time in decades and played major markets this summer, have agreed to do two shows at the 30A Songwriters Festival which will probably be the dB’s only appearances in 2025. Chuck Prophet returns to 30A Songwriters Festival to showcase his new band called His Cumbia Shoes which is his collaboration with local Latin American musicians. It is a combination of rock n roll, punk, surf, soul and traditional South American music.

The Devon Allman Project will feature both Devon’s original compositions and a solid dose of Allman Brothers classic jams. Expect several special guests.

Charlie Starrs and Benji Shanks from Blackberry Smoke are going to play two acoustic sets. (And), Amos Lee will close out the headline stage on Saturday with a rare solo acoustic performance.”

What a lineup!

Fun fact: The 30A Songwriters Festival is more than just a celebration of music—it’s also a force for good. Proceeds from the event benefit the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County, supporting arts education and cultural events in the region. By attending, you’re not only enjoying world-class music but also helping sustain creativity in the community.

Ready to soak up the sounds of winter sunshine? Learn more about tickets, accommodations, and the full festival lineup at 30A Songwriters Festival’s official website.

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