‘Going back to the roots’ — WinterWonderGrass to feature nine new bands, internationally recognized headliners

When it comes to the WinterWonderGrass festival, organizers say it’s not about money, fame or anything else that comes with the music biz.

“It’s about creating a space where people can feel like they are seen, heard and loved as we connect as human beings,” according to WinterWonderGrass organizer Scotty Stoughton, who this week unveiled the lineup for the 2025 bluegrass and Americana-infused festival.

The festival, which is enjoying its eighth year in Steamboat Springs, will be Feb. 28-March 2 in the Knoll parking lot at Steamboat Resort. 

“The raw beauty of this community and the unpretentiousness of it has really molded WinterWonderGrass into something that I couldn’t have created without the inspiration and influence of Steamboat Springs,” Stoughton said. 

The event is well-known for its community-based vibe, family-friendly atmosphere and for being a launchpad where emerging artists can gain a foothold in the rapid current of bluegrass music. 

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One of those groups is Steamboat’s Little Moon Travelers, who are returning to this year’s lineup after a sudden drop-in performance in 2024. 

“It is honestly a dream come true,” said Little Moon Traveler’s Jeremy Campbell. “Last year we were asked to play at the last minute due to a band not being able to make it, but this year we get to enjoy the anticipation and excitement for the next four months.”

Coming out of the 2024 festival, Stoughton’s intended to “keep the energy up” by continuing to introduce new and emerging artists to the WWG lineup.

“It’s definitely made me focus and work harder to find these acts that are picking up steam,” said Stoughton. “For me, that’s going back to the roots, taking the time and focusing on these bands and honoring them for the work they are putting in to get to the next level.” 

New to WWG this year is The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, Sister Sadie, Jack Cloonan, Fireside Collective, Magoo, High Country Hustle, Damn Tall Buildings, The Langan Band, Cousin Curtiss, Arkansauce and Silas Herman. 

Multiple new female artists will also make appearances with the all-female group WinterWonderWomen.

Trampled By Turtles will return to the festival this year, as will the California Honeydrops, Sam Bush, the Kitchen Dwellers, Leftover Salmon, Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country, and Yonder Mountain String Band, and special guest Lindsey Lou. Also attending following a performance at Renewal will be Mountain Grass Unit.

“We are trying to sprinkle some of these bigger WinterWonderGrass names from the past with a really blistering young conglomerate of up and coming talent,” said Stoughton. 

The festival will also feature five main stage artists each day, which is an increase from previous years. 

Despite the festival being held at many different ski resorts throughout the Rocky Mountain West, Stoughton believes that no other resort has been as supportive as Steamboat has.

As WinterWonderGrass enters its 12th year, Stoughton hopes the energy behind the series contributes to the legacy of music in the area and in the nation. 

“The amount of love, and the community that comes together and rallies from all over the country, in addition to the local community, is what we live for,” said Stoughton. “It’s just magical. It’s about the collection of energy that we create and cultivate together and that’s what we look forward to. We are honored to be able to do this for the community.” 

The Little Moon Travelers have also been inspired by the level of dedication that event organizers have illustrated over the years.

“The entire Bonfire Entertainment crew does a phenomenal job including the entire community in this festival. The talent brought in and the level of professionalism and execution is second to none,” added Campbell.

The event is also notable for its contributions to nonprofits and those in need. This year, a portion of ticket sales will be donated to hurricane victims in the southeastern portion of the country, who were impacted by the fall hurricane season.

“We believe that it is super important as organizers of these gatherings to be mindful of providing to communities that are in need,” said Stoughton. “We are excited to give back.”

More information on WinterWonderGrass Steamboat can be found at WinterWonderGrass.com/steamboat. Tickets are now on sale, including VIP packages.

This story is from SteamboatPilot.com.