The Wakarusa Music Festival is a grassroots festival nestled in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas where the beauty of nature synchronizes with the euphoric sounds of live music. Born in 2004, Wakarusa grew its reputation as a celebration of music with scenic backdrops at Clinton State Park near Lawrence, Kansas. After five years of perking the interests of devout and casual music fans alike in Kansas, it was time for a change of scenery.
2013 will mark the fifth year of Wakarusa on the marvelous Mulberry Mountain just up the road from Ozark, Arkansas. Each year since its relocation, Wakarusa has been graced by over a hundred world-class artists that continue to stir the musical interests of folks from all 50 states and beyond. If this is your first Wakarusa, prepare yourself for a magical weekend of music where the best artist sometimes is Mother Nature herself.
Quotes From Fans
Blaire – Baltimore, MD
“I just want to say big ups to everyone who made Waka a wonderful experience. Best festival I have ever been to and best group of people I have ever been around.”
Patre – Little Rock, AR
“I had a great time. This was my first time to attend a music festival; I am 38 years old. I was impressed with most of the staff, the bus drivers were great as well. They worked their tails off, just so we could see some great live music.”
David – Atlanta, GA
“My cousin and I lived the dream for 5 days thanks to the wonderful VIP staff and volunteers. They did such a wonderful job of making the festival experience evolve into a luxury festival experience!”
Quotes From Artists
Michael Franti
“There is nothing more beautiful than watching the sun drop behind the Ozarks, the smell of summer in the air, great music pumping and the bond of friendship forever sealed over a beer. Wakarusa gets better every year!”
Jesse Miller of Lotus
“A gathering of true music lovers taking in the best of the jam, rock and electronic worlds and everything in between.”
Ana Sia
“Such a beautiful experience! It was humbling to be so close to nature.”
Quotes From Media
Pollstar.com, May 2011
“Locally produced and promoted, Wakarusa combines the great outdoors with top-flight bands and artists, creating an environment where Mother Nature co-headlines with established acts as well as tomorrow’s stars.”
Paste Magazine, June 2011
“Wakarusa feels like it exists within its own wonderful world.”
New York Times, May 2011
“Stationed atop Mulberry Mountain in the Arkansas Ozarks, Wakarusa isn’t an urban throw down. Camping is encouraged here, and there are many opportunities for hiking, fishing, disc golf, yoga and kayaking.”
