One of the best things about Central Oregonians is our love of nature. So it’s no surprise that the SFF Presents outdoor festival, Big Ponderoo, is returning for its fourth year. Nestled beneath the giant shade trees of the idyllic Village Green Park in Sisters, this family-friendly event promises to be a summer sensation.
With entertainment all day and camping available at night, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The lineup includes some of America’s finest bluegrass, country, and Americana music: Sierra Hull, John Craigie & the Coffis Brothers, Shovels & Rope, Tophouse, Lindsay Lou, Alo, Yarn, Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience, Cat Clyde, Clay Street Unit, Fireside Collective, and more. After you’ve done your bluegrass boogie, you can refresh yourself at one of many fantastic food and drink vendors like Barrio, Lot Dawgs and Southern Accent. Then grab a local beverage or some Bonta and stroll around the venue, checking out displays and events from local artists.
The Big Ponderoo festival is not just about music and art but also about community. There are no bans on bringing in your own low-backed seating, and all adult ticket holders receive a free Silipint to discourage single-use cups. The festival even has a bike valet so daytime visitors can attend without worrying about parking. Perhaps most impressively, the SFF Presents Big Ponderoo festival gives back through more than a dozen yearly music and arts events and educational opportunities. In 2024 alone, they invested over $225,000 in local educational programming. “Our mission is to enrich lives through art and music education,” says Communications Manager Erin Pihl.
It’s no wonder this festival remains popular with attendees and musicians alike. As six-time IBMA Mandolin Player of the Year Sierra Hull told The Source, “You know, I think it’s important to make sure that people that you’re surrounding yourself with – personally and musically – that they’re people that you want to be in their presence, and that can help you be a better person. I think all that kind of keeps your heart and spirit open, if that makes sense, which can keep you from getting as jaded about the music itself.” Hull’s thoughtfulness pervades her music, from haunting melodies to innovative and uplifting mandolin stylings. Find her along with other incredible musicians at this year’s festival.
The Big Ponderoo begins with the free Big Ponderoo Friday Art Walk on Friday, June 27. After the art walk, a free concert will be held at Village Green Park, where attendees can enjoy live music from two festival bands. The festival will continue on Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, June 29, with two days of live music. This is a rain or shine event.
Purchase single adult tickets starting at $100 or weekend tickets for $205 at bigponderoo.com. Children five and under attend for free.
This article appears in Source Weekly May 22, 2025.
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