Lancaster Festival Returns for 42nd Year
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[LANCASTER, Ohio] The Lancaster Festival has returned with a full slate of music, art and community events after severe weather forced the cancellation of many signature performances during the 2025 season. The 42nd annual Festival returns July 17–25 with nine days of nationally recognized entertainment, family-friendly activities and one of the biggest names in country music—seven-time GRAMMY Award-winning trio Lady A—headlining the Grand Finale Concert on July 25.
Now in its 42nd year, the Lancaster Festival continues its mission of bringing world-class artistic experiences to Fairfield County through orchestral performances, Broadway favorites, tribute concerts, chamber music, folk and Americana artists, children’s programming and community events. Most Festival events are free or offered at low cost, making the arts accessible to residents and visitors of all ages.
“Every year, the Lancaster Festival brings top-caliber entertainment and art to our community thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, donors and volunteers,” said Deb Connell, executive director of the Lancaster Festival. “There is truly something for every person in the community to enjoy. The arts enrich our lives and invigorate our community in a way nothing else can. We are so grateful to be back this year.”
Lady A’s appearance continues the Festival’s tradition of bringing nationally acclaimed performers to Lancaster. The trio has earned seven GRAMMY Awards, produced 11 No. 1 country hits and amassed more than 9 billion digital streams. Their signature song, “Need You Now,” is certified 12-times Platinum and remains the highest-certified song by a country group. The trio has also received three consecutive Academy of Country Music and Country Music Association Vocal Group of the Year honors, along with a Tony Award nomination.
The Festival also welcomes new Music Director John Gennaro Devlin, who began leading the Lancaster Festival Orchestra in 2025. Known for his innovative programming and passion for American music, Devlin brings a fresh artistic vision while continuing the orchestra’s tradition of exceptional performances.
One of this year’s most anticipated additions is the return of the Covered Bridge Music Series, making its first appearance since 2019 following a pandemic hiatus. The concert will be held July 22, at 8 p.m. on the Wendel Concert Stage at Ohio University Lancaster and will feature rising country singer-songwriter Allie Colleen. The evening will celebrate folk, Americana and country music in place of the Festival’s traditional tribute-band concert.
While the Lancaster Festival attracts renowned performers, organizers say its success continues to be driven by the community. Hundreds of volunteers donate countless hours each year to organize performances, assist artists and welcome visitors, making it possible for Lancaster to host a professional, multi-genre arts festival that has become one of central Ohio’s signature summer traditions.
In addition to its headline performances, the Festival offers dozens of free activities designed to make the arts accessible to everyone. Visitors can enjoy the popular Noon at the Square concert series, Children’s Corner with hands-on activities, downtown ArtWalk, Festival Fair Day, free community concerts, art exhibitions and family-friendly entertainment throughout the nine-day celebration. These events create opportunities for residents and visitors of all ages to experience music, visual arts and community in the heart of Lancaster at little or no cost.
Festival highlights include:
July 17: ArtWalk
July 18: Festival Fair Day
July 18: Dancing Dream (ABBA Tribute) and Elton Rohn (Elton John Tribute)
July 19: Community Orchestra Concert
July 19: Chamber Music Classics Concert
July 20: Children’s Corner: MASD Dance Party
July 21: Lancaster Festival Orchestra presents A Night on Broadway
July 22: Covered Bridge Music Series featuring Allie Colleen
July 23: Lancaster Festival Orchestra at The Basilica of St. Mary
July 24: Bryon Stripling and Friends at Zane Square
July 25: Grand Finale featuring Lady A and the Lancaster Festival Orchestra
Tickets, event schedules and additional information are available at lancasterfestival.org or by calling the Festival office at 740-687-4808.
