The 31st Annual Gamble Rogers Folk Festival
Join us April 10–12, 2026, at the St. Johns County Fairgrounds for a weekend filled with live music, storytelling, family-friendly activities, craft vendors, camping, and the community spirit that continues to honor the legacy of Florida troubadour Gamble Rogers!
From longtime favorites to exciting new voices, this year’s lineup is one you won’t want to miss!
Check Out Our 2026 Performers
Dom Flemons & The Traveling Wildfires
Grammy Award-winner, American Songster, and American Banjo Hall of Fame inductee Dom Flemons, will be joined by his dynamic supergroup, The Traveling Wildfires. Formed as an evolution of Flemons' lifelong mission to celebrate, preserve, and reimagine roots music, The Traveling Wildfires draw inspiration from his GRAMMY-nominated Folkways albums Black Cowboys and Traveling Wildfire. The group features a talented lineup: Brian Farrow (bass, fiddle; formerly Gangstagrass) and Dante Pope (vocals, drums; formerly Old Crow Medicine Show). Together, they deliver a fiery, fresh sound rooted in bluegrass, country, folk, blues, and Black stringband music.
Gamble's Living Room Stage
Workshop with Dom Flemons: Discovering 100 years of American Roots Music
Saturday, April 11th 3:00PM
The Oklawaha Stage
Saturday, April 11th 8:45PM
Alexa Rose
Gamble Rogers Folk Fest welcomes acclaimed singer-songwriter Alexa Rose, praised by NPR Music as "An enchanting new Appalachian voice...sounds like the soul child of Bob Dylan and Dolly Parton." Raised in western Virginia, Rose was inspired by stories of her great-grandfather, who once lived and played with bluegrass legend Lester Flatt. Her 2019 debut Medicine For Living garnered widespread attention when the title track won Merlefest's Chris Austin Songwriting Contest. Rose's 2021 album Headwaters earned national acclaim from American Songwriter and Rolling Stone. Blending old country, traditional folk, rock, and mountain soul, Rose delivers earnest, well-crafted stylings.
The Oklawaha Stage
Friday, April 10th 7:00PM
Red and Christopher Henry & Their All-Star Band
Known for their exceptional musicianship and original songwriting, Red and Christopher Henry & Their All-Star Band have made lasting contributions to the bluegrass community. Beginning with Red and Murphy Henry's early performances as a husband-and-wife duo, the family has continued to shape regional bluegrass culture through live performances and their influential Murphy Method instructional tradition. Today, Christopher Henry joins his father, Red Henry, to lead a dynamic All-Star Band known for its tight instrumentation, authentic harmonies, and spirited stage presence, carrying the family's musical legacy proudly into a new era.
The Workshop Tent
Mandolin for Everybody with Red & Chris Henry
Saturday, April 11th 2:30PM
Gamble's Living Room Stage
Saturday, April 11th 4:30PM
The Oklawaha Stage
Sunday, April 12th 2:30PM
Airtight
Airtight was formed in 2022 when a group of friends jammed at a beach party in St. Augustine. Founded by Shawn Ryan, Luke Foley, and Jeremy Yetman, Airtight has been rocking the local scene with their original tunes and renditions of their favorites from the past. Joined by multi-instrumentalist, Srivas Barsaleau, Airtight blends the sounds of psychedelic rock and folk Americana.
The Terminal Tavern Stage
Saturday, April 11th 11:45PM
Bear & Robert
Bear and Robert are Cindy Bear and Franc Robert (row-bear), an award winning singer-songwriter duo from Jacksonville, FL. Together their acoustic sound has been described as a deep well of Folk, Blues and Americana with a high energy “je ne sais quoi”! Their catchy melodies, toe tapping rhythms, and soulful lyrics will touch your heart in many different ways, and will always leave you wanting more.
Gamble's Living Room Stage
Saturday, April 11th 11:15AM
Tommy Bledsoe
Tommy Bledsoe is a storyteller, musician, dance caller, actor, writer, director, and educator. He grew up in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia, where he learned the value of passing along cultural wisdom through dance, songs, and stories. A 1999 and 2011 Florida state banjo champion, Tommy plays old-time and bluegrass banjo with Skin & Bonz.
The Workshop Tent
Banjo workshop with Tommy Bledsoe &
Paige Bechtold
Sunday, April 12th 1:00PM
Verlon Thompson
Celebrated songwriter, master guitarist, and Oklahoma native Verlon Thompson will also take the stage. With more than three decades as a touring troubadour and as the longtime creative partner to the legendary Guy Clark, Thompson is known for his narrative songwriting, guitar work, and as a talented performer. His songs have been recorded by some of the industry's biggest names, including Jimmy Buffett and Alan Jackson, Dierks Bentley, Del McCoury, Trisha Yearwood, Randy Travis, and The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. As a producer, Thompson co-created several of Clark's critically revered albums, including Cold Dog Soup and Somedays the Song Writes You. On stage, Thompson's narrative magic and musicianship create an unforgettable experience.
The Oklawaha Stage
Friday, April 10th 8:45PM
The Workshop Tent
Songwriting with Verlon Thompson
Saturday, April 11th 11:30AM
The Oklawaha Stage
Saturday, April 11th 3:45PM
Ed Snodderly
Joining the lineup is veteran songwriter and performer, Ed Snodderly AKA Es Pearl. In 2001 the third verse to his song, “The Diamond Stream”, was permanently displayed on the Wall Of Honor at the Country Music Hall Of Fame in Nashville, Tennessee. Jerry Douglas, Sam Bush, Missy Raines and others have recorded his songs. In 1976 he co-founded the iconic venue, The Down Home. Gamble’s last performance was on that stage. “What’s it worth to sing this song?” It’s the question East Tennessee culture keeper and songwriter Es Pearl asks.
The Workshop Tent
Shooting the Breeze with Ed Snodderly
(Ask Ed anything about the music business. According to Ed, "I am not an expert on anything in particular...but I have opinions!"
Saturday, April 11th 1:00PM
The Oklawaha Stage
Saturday, April 11th 7:00PM
Skin & Bonz
Skin and Bonz is a trio that started as duo Tommy Bledsoe and Joy D'Elia on the streets of St. Augustine, Fl, playing harmonica and banjo (the "skin" forms the banjo drum ) and bones (ancient rhythm instrument made of rib bones) and performing music blending Tommy's Appalachian heritage and Joy's strong harmonies. The band became a trio when it welcomed Kathe O'Donnelly's rhythm guitar, creating a full string band sound. They are known for their Florida Hoedown program consisting of songs, stories, and a square dance or two called by Tommy.
Gamble's Living Room Stage
Saturday, April 11th 1:45PM
The Workshop Tent
Banjo workshop with Tommy Bledsoe &
Paige Bechtold
Sunday, April 12th 1:00PM
Katherine Archer
St. Augustine's multi-talented Katherine Archer possesses one of the sweetest voices in Florida. Shh is equally at home on guitar, mandolin and ukulele. Katherine's original songs explore her love for nature and humanity, while engaging her audience with humor and charm.
Gamble's Living Room Stage
Songwriters in the Round: Doug Spears, Chuck Hardwicke and Katherine Archer
Sunday, April 12th 1:15PM
Paige Bechtold
Paige discovered a love for bluegrass and Americana music at St. Augustine High School in the Americana Music class under the mentorship of Dr. Jonathan Dotson and Trey Brewer. She has dedicated herself to her instrument over the last several years, performing as a solo musician, as a member of Taildraggers Ultralight and with her band, The Varella String Band.
The Workshop Tent
Banjo workshop with Tommy Bledsoe &
Paige Bechtold
Sunday, April 12th 1:00PM
Trey Brewer
Trey Brewer has been playing music most of his life. He studied classical guitar at the University of Georgia with John Sutherland and jazz guitar at Georgia State University earning a degree in jazz guitar performance. He also studied jazz guitar at the University of North Florida with Jack Petersen. Trey is also known in his role as the director of the guitar program at St. Augustine High School, which he ran for thirty years. He retired from teaching in May of 2024 and now plays music full time. Trey’s music is on several download sites under his name Trey Brewer Guitarist and The North Florida Taildraggers. You can find out more by checking www.treybrewerguitarist.com
The Workshop Tent
Guitar workshop with Jonathan Dotson
& Trey Brewer
Sunday, April 12th 11:30AM
Emmitt Carlisle
Emmett Carlisle is a Florida singer/ song writer. He writes many songs about Florida History, Characters and Environment. Now working on his 9th CD of Original Songs, some of which are about Love and Social Justice.
The Workshop Tent
Song Swap hosted by Emmett Carlisle
Sunday, April 12th 2:30PM
Angel Chantel & Underbrush
Angel Chantel & Underbrush is a bluegrass and roots trio weaving bluegrass and folk influences into a modern, rhythm-driven sound. Led by upright bassist and vocalist Angel Chantel, a native of the Southern Appalachians, the band is known for haunting vocals and propulsive acoustic textures. Based between East Tennessee and St. Augustine, Florida, Angel Chantel & Underbrush brings an intensity and momentum that pulls listeners in and
refuses to let go.
The Oklawaha Stage
Saturday, April 11th 2:30PM
The Terminal Tavern Stage
Saturday, April 11th 10:15PM
Cosmoshead
Cosmoshead is a rock ‘n’ roll quartet based out of Saint Augustine, Florida. Steeped in great songs from American folk traditions, in quirky improvisational rock ‘n’ roll, and the band’s original compositions- every Cosmoshead show is a one of a kind experience, designed to allow for the present moment to be part of the show.
The Terminal Tavern Stage
Friday, April 10th 10:15PM
Jonathan Dotson
Praised by Soundboard Magazine for his “relentless technical strength and interpretive skill,” Dr. Jonathan Dotson is a leading classical guitarist whose performances have taken him to stages on four continents, from Austin nightclubs to Gothic cathedrals in Spain. A prizewinner in eight international competitions, he is an active chamber musician, recording artist, and frequent clinician, with appearances at major festivals including the Guitar Foundation of America Convention and the Victoria Bach Festival. A former founding member of the Texas Guitar Quartet, Dotson now performs regularly throughout Florida and serves as director of the guitar program at the St. Johns County Center for the Arts in St. Augustine.
The Workshop Tent
Guitar workshop with Jonathan Dotson
& Trey Brewer
Sunday, April 12th 11:30AM
Mike Elias
Mike Elias has been writing songs almost as long as he’s been playing guitar and singing, 60 plus years or so. You’ll hear a variety of musical styles in a set of his original songs. This variety stems from the luck of getting to play with so many fine and fun bands throughout the years that played folk, bluegrass, country, blues, swing and pretty much anything now called “Americana” or “Roots music”. Mike’s songs can also cover a wide range of subjects and experiences. They might be humorous or serious or both. They might even include some subtle or outright social commentary or protest. But for that, we’ll let the songs speak for themselves.
Gamble’s Living Room Stage
Songwriters in the Round: Mike Elias, Folk Is People and Bert Hodge
Sunday, April 12th 12:00PM
Dim Lights
Dim Lights- a four piece band with an upbeat dynamic edge. Ned Stewart fronts the band on lead guitar and vocals, supported by rich harmonies from Karan Newman on mandolin and Tim Stevens on bass. Garrett Alvar has recently joined the band to help round out the sound on rhythm guitar and banjo, adding drive and texture to their signature blend.
Gamble’s Living Room Stage
Sunday, April 12th 2:30PM
The Dunehoppers
The Dunehoppers have become a welcome and tasteful addition to Florida music festivals across the state. Known for their easygoing charm and laughter, the band delivers a blend of bluegrass, traditional. and old-time music that feels both authentic and refreshing. Mike Elias on Guitar, Bob Parsons on Mandolin, Allen Hood on Fiddle, Kathy Zemaneck on Fiddle and Banjo, Brian Lappin on Banjo and Janine Rainville on Upright Bass.
The Oklawaha Stage
Saturday, April 11th 12:00PM
Dining Tent
Saturday, April 11th 6:00PM
Folk Is People
Folk is People is the nom de plume of singer-songwriter and dad joke expert, Stacey Bennett, an artist who has buried her Appalachian roots in the storied swamp ash scene of Florida --- highlighting the rich musical ethos of the past centuries. Bennett’s collection is a diary of sorts, each song an entry reaching deep into the spirit, and longing for shared connection. Poetic and honest, her catalog is an array of existential musings threaded with hope.
Gamble’s Living Room Stage
Songwriters in the Round: Mike Elias, Folk Is People and Bert Hodge
Sunday, April 12th 12:00PM
Chuck Hardwicke
Chuck Hardwicke is a singer songwriter of Florida songs living in Satsuma Florida. He performs throughout the state singing his original songs and stories. His songs tell of the land, the people, the history and the ambiance of Florida.
Gamble's Living Room Stage
Songwriters in the Round: Doug Spears, Chuck Hardwicke and Katherine Archer
Sunday, April 12th 1:15PM
Joey Kerr Band
Singer-songwriter, guitarist Joey Kerr carries on two family traditions: railroading and roots music. A fourth generation Florida train engineer, his music blends literary lyrics with Americana soul. Joey is joined by Walt Mingledorff on keyboards, Pat Rodifer on drums, and Eric Hunter on bass.
The Oklawaha Stage
Saturday, April 11th 5:00PM
Larry Mangum
Jacksonville, FL singer/songwriter LARRY MANGUM has nearly 3000 performances over 5 decades as a folk, country and Americana artist. A Floridian since 1970, known for his butter smooth voice, Larry has released 12 albums of original music. An award winning songwriter, Larry writes from a keen sense of observation and experience capturing the moments that reveal the human truths that bind us all together. An evening of Larry’s songs is an emotional roller coaster touching the heart, the mind and the soul that stays with the listener long after the performance.
The Oklawaha Stage
Sunday, April 12th 1:15PM
Ron & Bari w/Special Guest Stan Geberer
Ron and Bari bring to the stage the experience of over thirty five years of performances at festivals, concerts and events…including the very first Will McLean Festival, the earliest Gamble Roger’s Festivals, The South Florida Folk Festival, and The Florida Folk Festival. Their journey has criss-crossed Florida, the Carolinas, as far as Seattle, Washington to perform alongside of such Luminaries as Nickel Creek, as well as a Florida tour with Tom Paxton, Odetta, and Janis Ian. Each “Ron and Bari” concert experience involves laughter, stories, spontaneous introspective commentary, and toe tapping fun. They are thrilled and honored to include our friend and harmonica virtuoso, Stan Geberer for this special performance.
The Oklawaha Stage
Sunday, April 12th 3:45PM
Starlight Trio
The Starlight Trio's members include Rick Kuncicky and Lon and Lis Williamson. Rick is well known throughout the southeast for his superb fingerstyle guitar playing. Lon and Lis Williamson are also musical fixtures of the Northeast Florida folk scene. The three have been playing together for about 40 years and have a wonderful and wide-ranging repertoire of original, swing, jazz and folk material.
The Oklawaha Stage
Friday, April 10th 6:00PM
Taildraggers Ultralight
Taildraggers Ultralight plays original music and standards in the Acoustic Americana, Folk and Bluegrass genres. The Group consists of Trey Brewer on vocals, mandolin and guitar, Jan Brewer on the upright bass, Paige Bechtol on banjo and Michael Lagasse on guitar, mandolin, fiddle and vocals. The group has played many festivals and events in the southeast.
The Oklawaha Stage
Sunday, April 12th 12:00PM
Bert Hodge
Lonesome Bert Hodge writes songs woven from the whole cloth of Palatka history, naval air service and commercial airline adventures. His stories are melodic and catchy, delivered with fingerpicks and lively lyrics intended to engage and amuse you. He worships Tom Rush and David Bromberg and hopes someday to become one. Or the other. Either, really.
Gamble’s Living Room Stage
Songwriters in the Round: Mike Elias, Folk Is People and Bert Hodge
Sunday, April 12th 12:00PM
Frank Lindamood
Frank Lindamood is a retired stagehand and builder, living on the edge of the National Forest north of Sopchoppy. He has three sons that he successfully helped raise by the Bad Example Method. His Weapons of Music Destruction are resonator guitar, banjo and harmonica. He sings loud because he cannot grasp the concept of subtlety. He plays primal country and proto blues and a collection of original songs based on personal tales, Greek myth, American history and, of course, the Bible. His favorite performance complement came from Dave Langston, a superb fiddler who said, " You know what I like about you, Frank? You ain't perfect!"
The Oklawaha Stage
Friday, April 10th 5:00PM
The Workshop Tent
Frank Lindamood: Evolutionary Old Time Banjo
Saturday, April 11th 4:00PM
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Charlotte Morris
Charlotte Morris is a Philadelphia-based singer-songwriter, whose autobiographical music weaves together a unique blend of Americana, Folk, Jazz, and more. Her soaring vocals and keen songwriting, often compared to the likes of Joni Mitchell, Liz Longley, and Eva Cassidy, create an intimate and vulnerable listening experience. When you see Charlotte live, it's like having a deep conversation with an old friend - personal, authentic, and familiar - and almost always with a few laughs and a few tears.
The Oklawaha Stage
Saturday, April 11th 1:15PM
Doug Spears
A modern-day troubadour's blend of musician, songwriter and storyteller, Doug Spears is an authentic acoustic folk / Americana artist with a unique style that somehow seems immediately familiar. His songs and stories reflect not only his fifth generation Florida roots, but the experience earned through a life well lived. His songcraft is a skillful weaving of lyric portraits illuminated on stage by the "stories behind the songs" delivered with engaging warmth and humor. Doug is a veteran favorite on the festival, listening room and house concert circuits throughout Florida and across the US.
Gamble's Living Room Stage
Songwriters in the Round: Doug Spears, Chuck Hardwicke and Katherine Archer
Sunday, April 12th 1:15PM
Hannah Stokes Band
Hannah Stokes is an Orlando based singer-songwriter and jazz vocalist whose music flows between folk, R&B, soul, and jazz, offering a space where raw feeling meets timeless groove. With a voice both sultry and serene, she writes with lyrical precision and emotional clarity, crafting songs quietly arresting in their honesty and warmth. Rooted in a love of artists like Joni Mitchell, Lianne La Havas, and Norah Jones, Hannah’s style is fluid, intimate, and unafraid to sit in the complexities of love, time, and identity.
The Terminal Tavern Stage
Friday April 10th 11:45PM
Kirk Whalen
One day in 2020 an old discarded guitar landed in Kirk’s lap and the pull was just too strong. He grabbed his Grandpa’s thumb-pick and finally became the singing southern troubadour he was always meant to be, connecting with his roots and his audiences wherever the songs take him."
Gamble's Living Room Stage
Saturday, April 11th 12:30PM
Lauren Woodall
Lauren Woodall is a Jacksonville, FL-based singer/songwriter often characterized by her distinctive emotional sound and stream-of-consciousness lyricism. Lauren released her debut single, Joice St., November 2023, bridging a range of musical styles/genres including alternative country and indie rock. Since then she’s had the honor of gracing stages around the US and internationally. More close to home she's participated in the 2024 & 2025 Sing-Out-Loud Festival, the Panama City Songwriters Festival, and now the Gamble Roger’s Folk Festival.
The Oklawaha Stage
Saturday, April 11th 11:00AM
As the oldest music festival in St. Johns County, we are ever grateful to YOU, our longtime and dedicated supporters to help us keep this important and fulfilling musical legacy alive and well.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts and we'll look forward to seeing you soon!
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Here are a few magical moments from our 30th Anniversary Festival Celebration
with Gamble's own spectacular rendition of his tune, Deep Gap Salute, written in honor of his longtime friend, Doc Watson.
