Every Summer Hoot is special—but this year’s festival is shaping up to be one of the most memorable yet.
From beloved returning favorites to legendary performers making their way to the Catskills, the 2026 Summer Hoot promises a weekend filled with extraordinary music, meaningful connections, and moments you’ll remember long after the final note.
The Return of Tuba Skinny
One of the festival’s most anticipated returns is Tuba Skinny, the internationally celebrated New Orleans ensemble known for bringing traditional jazz, blues, ragtime, and street music to life. Their performances have become Hoot favorites over the years, and we’re thrilled to welcome them back to Ashokan.
The Milk Carton Kids Come to the Hoot
Making their Summer Hoot debut are The Milk Carton Kids, the Grammy-nominated folk duo whose stunning harmonies, thoughtful songwriting, and captivating stage presence have earned them audiences around the world. Their appearance marks one of the biggest bookings in the festival’s history and is sure to be a highlight of the weekend.
A Living Legend Takes the Stage
This year also welcomes folk and blues icon Jim Kweskin, whose influence on American roots music spans more than six decades. For many musicians, Jim is more than a performer—he’s one of the artists who helped shape the folk revival and inspired generations that followed.
For Jay Ungar, this performance is especially meaningful.
Jay first saw Jim Kweskin perform when he was just 18 years old. Like so many musicians of his generation, that experience left a lasting impression. Decades later, Jay has the incredible honor of joining Jim on stage as part of the festival’s closing performance on Sunday alongside Molly Mason.
“It’s an incredible honor,” Jay shared. “I never imagined when I first saw Jim perform that one day I’d be invited to play with him. I’m truly overjoyed.”
Moments like these are what make the Summer Hoot so unique—bringing together musical legends, lifelong friendships, and new generations of artists in one welcoming community.
More Than a Music Festival
Produced by Mike and Ruthy Merenda of The Mammals, the Summer Hoot has always been about more than great music. It’s three days of camping, dancing, nature walks, workshops, family activities, spontaneous jam sessions, delicious food, and a community that welcomes everyone.
As always, every ticket helps support The Ashokan Center’s nonprofit mission to inspire learning and build community through shared experiences in nature, history, music, and art.
Whether you’re coming to hear a favorite artist, discover someone new, or simply spend a weekend surrounded by music and nature, there’s never been a better time to experience the Hoot.
Want to learn more about this year’s incredible lineup, activities, and festival experience? Read the excellent feature from NYS Music:
We can’t wait to welcome you to the Ashokan Center for another unforgettable Summer Hoot.