Say Sister! Festival

Join us for a diverse and revolutionary celebration of women in roots music with the inaugural Say Sister! Festival. This transformative event celebrates the vital contributions of women to a space where their presence has always been essential, though often underappreciated, shining a spotlight on the past, present, and future contributions of women in Old Time Music.

Set against the backdrop of Baltimore’s rich musical history—home to icons like Alice Gerrard, Hazel Dickens, and Mama Cass—Say Sister! honors the women who have endured, thrived, and shaped the roots music landscape.

Co-curated by Maryland’s beloved, multi-Grammy Award-winning artist and Roots Music Specialist, Cathy Fink, the Inaugural festival kicks off on January 3 with the lively Inaugural Say Sister! Square Dance, the festival unfolds over two weekends of electrifying performances, insightful workshops, films, storytelling, and jam sessions. Each artist will not only take the stage but also lead an engaging workshop, offering a deeper connection to their craft and the roots music tradition.

The festival culminates on January 10-11, featuring performances by:

• Amythyst Kiah
• Sarah Kate Morgan
• Kimber Ludiker
• Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer Old Time Coalition
• Ann Porcella
• Becky Hill
• Dena Ross Jennings

And more.

But the highlight of the festival is the Saturday night supergroup, where these incredible artists unite for a never-before-seen, one-time-only collaboration. This unique performance promises to be an unforgettable showcase of talent and creativity.

The 2nd weekend will be hosted by behind-the-scenes star of the queer music industry, the Chair of the Board for Bluegrass Pride, and President of Elderly Instruments, Lillian Werbin.

Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to witness and participate in a powerful musical legacy.

Say Sister! is a festival programmed in conjunction with I’ve Endured: Women of Old Time, a touring exhibition from the Birthplace of Country Music.