We’re so grateful to NYS Music and writer Mickey Deneher for their beautiful coverage of the 13th Annual Summer Hoot at the Ashokan Center!

From August 22–25, music, dancing, and community filled our campus, as families and friends gathered among the trees and hills of Ashokan. With 21 different acts across multiple stages—including intimate Pewter Shop Sessions—this year’s Hoot reflected the same mission that inspired its founding in 2013: to build community and inspire learning through nature, history, music, and the arts.

A Festival for All Ages

Mickey’s article captures what makes the Hoot so special: it truly is for everyone. Children explored the instrument petting zoo, cloggers stomped out rhythms with the City Stompers, and festivalgoers from toddlers to elders shared in the joy of music.

Highlights from 2025

  • Local voices like Woodstock’s Jude Roberts took the stage, joined by friends including members of The Mammals.

  • Al Olender made her festival debut, joined by James Felice of the Felice Brothers.

  • Micah John, a rising folk and fiddle talent from Boston, won hearts in her first Hoot appearance.

  • Olivia K & the Parkers brought soul and power to the Sunday stage.

  • And headliner Natalie Merchant returned for her third Hoot, offering both an intimate Pewter House set and a golden-hour performance on the Toshi Seeger Stage, joined by Jay Ungar, Simi Stone, and more.

A Generational Gathering

The article also highlights the family spirit at the heart of the Hoot. With Mike Merenda & Ruthy Ungar (The Mammals) at the helm, the weekend included performances by three generations of the Ungar/Merenda family—from young Willie Merenda’s band Picnic Committee, to The Mammals’ Saturday night set, to beloved patriarchs Jay Ungar & Molly Mason closing out Sunday.

“Once You Attend a Hoot, You’re Part of the Family”

That spirit of belonging is what keeps the Hoot thriving year after year. As Mickey beautifully put it, “Like a home with the lights always on, The Hoot is a place where the door is always open, and everyone is welcome. Once you attend a Hoot, you are part of the family.”

We couldn’t agree more.

✨ Read the full article on NYS Music.

And to everyone who made the Summer Hoot 2025 so magical—musicians, volunteers, staff, sponsors, and audience members—thank you. You’re the heartbeat of this family.