The vibrant Manayunk neighborhood in Philadelphia is gearing up for the highly anticipated Sing Us Home Festival, taking place from Friday to Sunday on Venice Island. This three-day music event is aimed at bringing together music lovers of all ages, featuring headliners such as Frank Turner and New Jersey punk rock legends, The Bouncing Souls.
Festival organizer and renowned musician Dave Hause, who grew up in the Roxborough-Manayunk area, has been instrumental in bringing the event to life. Reflecting on his childhood experiences watching the CoreStates Bike Race and witnessing the transformation of Manayunk, Hause expressed a deep connection to the community and its artistic evolution. “Main Street Music has been the staple of the community for so long,” he stated, showing appreciation for the cultural renaissance in the area.
Hause’s passion for small, intimate festivals blossomed after attending Eddie Vedder’s Ohana Festival in 2018, which he described as a game-changer. He was inspired by Vedder’s ability to maintain a family-oriented atmosphere amidst larger festival chaos. “Typically, the bigger the festival, the less enjoyable it is for the showgoer and the band,” Hause shared. “It’s the hardest challenge that they have is to keep it small and keep it cool.”
Despite challenges like unexpected rain during last year’s festival, Hause remains committed to creating unforgettable memories for the fans. “It probably would have killed most second-year festivals, but we stuck it out, and our fans stuck it out,” he reflected, acknowledging the community’s resilience and support.
The festival has garnered attention not only for its lineup but also for its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Members of Speedy Ortiz, a Philly-based indie punk band, share Hause’s excitement about the festival, highlighting the opportunity to connect with a diverse audience. Lead vocalist Sadie Dupuis expressed pride in playing in their adopted hometown, noting that the festival’s all-ages focus aligns with their ethos.
“I think the thing about Philly that’s cool is the sustainability of its arts communities,” Dupuis remarked, emphasizing the importance of creating spaces where artists can thrive. The festival aims to foster intergenerational connections, encouraging families to come together and engage with local music.
Bassist Audrey Zee Whitesides also reflects on the significance of the festival, as it represents a nostalgic return to her pop punk roots. “For me, it’s also like a fun Philly festival, but also musically getting back to some roots,” she said. Whitesides’ excitement is evident as she anticipates a weekend full of celebration and camaraderie.
Lead guitarist Andy Molholt shared his view on the evolution of Philadelphia’s music scene since he moved to the city 17 years ago. Having played in various bands and witnessed changes in the local landscape, he is hopeful for the festival’s continuity in the years to come. “Playing a festival in Philadelphia, there aren’t too many of them that happen regularly,” he noted, encouraging attendees to treasure these unique experiences.
For those eager to attend, tickets for this year’s Sing Us Home Festival are still available, with single-day passes starting at $59 and weekend passes beginning at $149. While VIP passes have sold out, a waitlist is available for those aspiring to secure tickets for the much-anticipated event.
The festival schedule reveals a diverse array of performances to look forward to. On Friday, May 2, doors will open at 5:00 p.m., and the lineup includes performances by Quarry, John Gallagher Jr., followed by the Hause Family Campfire featuring AJJ, Tim McIlrath from Rise Against, Dave Hause, and Jon Muq. Saturday, May 3, kicks off with a noon opening, featuring Speedy Ortiz, Mary’s Morning Deathbed, and more, culminating in performances by Dave Hause and The Mermaid at 6:00 p.m. and The Bouncing Souls at 7:30 p.m.
The festival wraps up on Sunday, May 4, with more exciting acts such as Lullanas, Dave Hause and The Mermaid, and a special performance by Frank Turner, who will cap off his set at 4:30 p.m. For those still wishing to join the festivities, Frank Turner will also headline the Sing Us Home After Party at Ardmore Music Hall following the festival. While tickets for this exclusive event may be sold out, organizers maintain a waitlist for hopeful attendees.
As the Sing Us Home Festival prepares to unfold this weekend, it invites the community to come together in celebration of music, culture, and the spirit of Manayunk. With a unique lineup and a focus on family-friendly fun, it promises to be a memorable experience for all who attend.
image source from：https://whyy.org/articles/manayunk-sing-us-home-festival-frank-turner/
