Briggs Farm Blues Festival
Head to the Briggs Farm Blues Festival in your RV to enjoy a weekend of camping, delicious food, and world-class blues music.
Event information
Briggs Farm Blues Festival is a music event that takes place annually in Nescopeck, Pennsylvania. Nescopeck is a small township in Luzerne County, that has begun attracting more and more visitors thanks to the event.
Briggs Farm has served as the venue for the festival since its inception in the summer of 1998. It was started by former TV producer, Richard Briggs whose family had owned the place since 1768. Over the years the event has grown, and now attracts thousands of music lovers from all over the country.
Big Jack Johnson, Lonnie Shields, Johnny Rawls, Blind Mississippi Morris, Phil Guy, Joanna Connor, Terry "Harmonica" Bean, Sharrie Williams, Nora Jean Bruso, Jonny Drummer & The Starliters, David "Honeyboy" Edwards, Teeny Tucker, and James Armstrong are some of the artists who have performed at Briggs Farm Blues Festival in the past.
The event aims to showcase blues music in all its many forms. World-renowned blues musicians, as well as upcoming local artists, perform at the event. In addition to the music, guests can enjoy a weekend of camping, outdoor activities, and some great southern-style food. Many of them choose to stay right on the grounds throughout the weekend, which opens up more opportunities for fun.
Tickets
Tickets may only be purchased at the festival gate and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. You can opt for single-day, two-day, or four-day passes. They range in price from $30 (single-day pass) to $115 (four-day pass).
A camping ticket includes access to the music performances and must be bought at the gate as well. Children under the age of 12 can enjoy the festival for free as long as a ticket-holding adult accompanies them. You can find more information on tickets, schedules, and pricing on the event website.
Explore Briggs Farm Blues Festival RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
Briggs Farm is located in Northwestern, Pennsylvania. It lies to the west of the intersection of Interstates 80 and 81, making it easy to get to from many locations. You'll may drive along I-80 and can take exit 256 to arrive near the farm. There will be signs along the way to guide guests to the venue. Your GPS app of choice may also come in handy. Keep an eye on road and weather conditions through Pennsylvania's 511 services by phone or online.
Parking areas
Free day parking spaces are available for all festival attendees at Briggs Farm. Once you reach the venue, festival attendees will assist you with finding a spot. There are designated ADA parking areas for patrons with disabilities. Keep in mind that if you're camping at the site, you'll need to head to a different entrance. There will be signs to direct you.
Public Transportation
Most guests choose to drive to the festival since public transportation options that will get you directly to the site are limited. Free shuttle rides will be available from some of the partner hotels to the venue. If you don't mind spending a little bit more, another option is to rent a car or take a taxi.
Where to stay
Onsite
The venue has sites that accommodate both tent and RV camping. There is a separate gate through which RVs can enter the camping area. You can choose to park your vehicle close to the staging area and be near the action, or in the woods, if you're seeking a more rustic experience. There are no hookups available, but campers will have access to sinks and porta-potties.
Nearby
The region is ideal for camping thanks to its abundant natural beauty. If you'd be more comfortable with facilities that aren't available at the festival site like electrical hookups, WiFi and pool access, you can choose one of the other RV parks in the area. There are several options within a 10-mile radius.
Getting around
Personal vehicles like scooters and golf carts will not be allowed. While there are accessible pathways throughout, most parts of the venue are covered by natural terrain. This can make it challenging to move around by wheelchair, especially if it rains, so you may want to have a friend with you to help if needed. The organizers can be contacted directly for any information related to the accessibility of the venue.
What to pack
Clothing
While lightweight summer clothing is ideal for the daytime, you'll definitely need warmer attire once the sun sets. It's a good idea to dress in layers to make sure that you're not too warm or cold. Be sure to carry some warm socks and covered footwear to protect your feet.
Gear
Take all the gear you'll need to enjoy a comfortable camping experience like pillows, sleeping bags, and a grill. Other essentials that can come in handy are sunscreen, bug spray, a hat, and a portable charger. Blankets and lawn chairs can be taken into the staging areas so that you can enjoy the performances while seated.
Health & Safety
Carry a plastic or metal water bottle and refill this frequently at one of the drinking water stations. Glass containers will not be permitted anywhere on the venue. Porta-potties and sinks will be available throughout the festival grounds. The camping areas also have sinks and free hot showers.
Where to eat
Cooking
Campfires are allowed as long as the weather is favorable and there is no burn ban in effect. So your family can gather around the fire and cook up a delicious warming stew when the weather gets cold. An open flame must be supervised at all times, so be sure to put it out before leaving your campsite to watch the music performances. Options to replenish your food supply may be limited in the immediate area, so you may wish to stock up on the way.
Restaurants
Nescopeck is a small town, and you won't need to travel very far to come across a good restaurant. Many of the eateries are family-owned, and there is a strong sense of community. There are some great pizzerias in the area, so be sure to grab a slice when you can.
Vendors
There will be designated food areas where vendors will be selling delicious treats and refreshing beverages. The organizers focus on promoting local food establishments and farm-fresh ingredients. Apart from festival favorites like burgers, tacos, and hot dogs, there will be some tasty homestyle food on offer as well. This is also your chance to peruse the handiwork of dozens of craftsmen and craftswomen from across the region; you may find a few new favorite items.
Safety
Security
Security personnel will be present at the entrances and will also be making rounds. Your bags and belongings will be checked, and your vehicle may be searched as well. The camping areas will have 24-hour security, and action will be taken against anyone breaking the rules of the event. Weapons, fireworks, or firearms are strictly prohibited.
Weather
The days are typically quite warm with the temperature dropping significantly at night. The weather can be unpredictable, so pack plenty of warm clothing and extra blankets. Ensure that all your camping gear is waterproof and carry some protective clothing as well. The festival will take place, rain or shine.
Medical
A first-aid center will be present on site staffed with trained medical professionals. If you or someone you know needs medical assistance, you can flag down one of the festival staff members. Any queries related to the ADA facilities can also be addressed this way. Service animals with proper documentation will be allowed.
