Concert Review: Northlands Festival in Swanzey, NH

Joanna Gleason
2 hours ago
2 min read

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From June 19–21, 2026, the community of Swanzey, New Hampshire, welcomed the Northlands Music Festival, a three-day jam and rock event with camping over Father’s Day weekend. Approximately 8,000 fans per day traveled from across New England and beyond to the beautiful town in Cheshire County.

Local and national bands performed throughout the weekend, with music running continuously from 1:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. each day.

Northlands was more than a music festival—it was a celebration of community, creativity, and faith. Across three days of live performances on side-by-side stages, people connected through singing, dancing, eating, drinking, and more. The excitement was palpable, and the crowd enthusiastically sang along and participated in many of the sets.

The lineup featured standout acts such as The Disco Biscuits, Andy Frasco, Mihali, Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, Dirty Heads, and more. The festival also hosted a variety of food and craft vendors, with merchandise displayed under large tents throughout the venue.

Two VIP sections were available, offering admission for all three days, complimentary drinks, a private viewing area, and access to VIP bathrooms. Volunteers were a highlight of the experience—well trained, friendly, and instrumental in keeping everything running smoothly. From daily lineups to festival passes and parking and shuttle logistics, the event was impressively organized.

There were countless memorable moments throughout the weekend. While interviewing one of the organizers, he said: “Northlands Music & Arts Festival brings our community together to experience the joy of personal connection through music and the arts.”

Garret K. Woodward of Rolling Stone wrote: “…Northlands is a breath of fresh air in this current musical landscape. Honestly, I didn’t think festivals like this existed anymore: Stellar lineup and a laid back atmosphere. Independently run and with the best of intentions of creating an environment that’s truly welcoming of any and all. It’s a place and a space that conjures such intrinsic magic and pure passion from both sides of the microphone.”

Ultimately, the 2026 Northlands Music & Arts Festival was a clear success. Its impact on the Swanzey community will likely be significant—financially and emotionally. The organizers and attendees left feeling satisfied, engaged, and inspired, thanks to the quality of the music, hospitality, and overall experience. For me personally, it was an honor to be part of it.

Day 1

Circles Around the Sun