The 2021 Champaign-Urbana Folk and Roots Festival is back again with live performances, but this year you aren’t required to watch them exclusively from your computer screen. This year’s programming includes Big Daddy Pride, Black Eyed Lillies, Flamenco Jazz Collective, Horseshoe Bender, Los Guapos, Mhondoro Rhythm Success, Painkillers Blues Band, The Sternwheelers, a wonderful return of Dom Flemons, and many other great acts. This year’s festival promises to deliver a variety of music that will keep your feet dancing and your spirit always bright.
The children’s programming on October 23rd, is sponsored by the Sousa Archives and includes wonderful melodies and music- making for people of all ages with Robin Kearton and Morning Music, Son Monarcos, Afro D and Global Soundwaves, Ayla and Emily, and the always crazy Musical Mayhem Parade. All of these morning performances will take place at the Rose Bowl Outdoor Tent, and are completely free. The afternoon’s programming will take place at the Urbana Free Library’s Lewis Auditorium and includes exceptional story-telling and music adventures provided by Kathe Brinkman, Kim Sheahan Sanford, Linda Dust, and Dom Flemons. All of the “For All Ages” programming is free and open to the general public. However, masks are required. For a complete schedule of this year’s programming visit C-U Folk and Roots Festival. For further information on the children’s programming call 217-333-4577 or email sousa@illinois.edu.