We're updating our camping and moorage fees to continue providing great experiences for visitors amid inflation and rising costs. You will see a rate increase for camping stays booked for May 15 and beyond. Moorage fees will increase Jan. 1. Learn more here.
American Roots Concert Series
Now in its 19th year, this popular summer concert series at Deception Pass State Park is a celebration of America's wide variety of musical traditions.
2025 American Roots concert series
Come tap your toes and enjoy the fun at one of Washington's most beloved and beautiful state parks.
Time: All concerts are 7-8 p.m.
Location: All concerts are held at North Beach Amphitheater (Directions) at Deception Pass State Park
July
July 12
ShiDaa
Ghanaian drumming and dance instruction
ShiDaa plays traditional West African rhythms and dance songs. West African rhythms are the roots of much of American jazz. The group uses authentic traditional instruments such as Kpanlogo hand drums, talking drum, brevet, shakers, cowbell, large dun duns, small kagons, sticks, African xylophone, and voice to produce high energy rhythms. Director Saeed Abbas is a Certified Master Drummer and Flautist by the Ghana Ministry of Culture. Saeed Abbas has performed in many places in the world starting with his time with Ghana’s top performing group the National Dance Ensemble as their top drummer and is considered one of Ghana’s best talking drum performers. Additional ShiDaa members include Joe Horzak, Michael McLaskey, Mark Perschbacher, Chris Skinner, Mary Leone, Lia Rocheleau, Shannon Pickens and Allison Springer.
Dance workshop leader, Eric Mensah Papoose, is a master of Ghanaian dance. He performed and taught with Ghana’s prestigious National Dance Theater in many countries.
July 19
SeaNotes Big Band
The SeaNotes Big Band originated in 1991 from a group of local Whidbey Island musicians dedicated to swing era music. The band has thrived amid the resurgence of big band music, captivating audiences with their performances. Over the years, the SeaNotes Big Band has appeared at notable events such as the Whidbey Music Festival, and Bellingham Jazz & Swing Festival. Their commitment to swing music has made them a beloved fixture in the Pacific Northwest’s jazz scene.
July 26
Lady A Gospel Choir
Full gospel choir led by famous blues musician Lady A.
Lady A’s musical journey began at the tender age of 5, when she first sang in the Greater Mt. Baker Missionary Baptist Church children's choir. By 16, she had already become a musical church choir director, showcasing her natural talent and ear for harmony. Today, Lady A is renowned for blending Soul, Gospel, and a touch of Funk into her performances, with storytelling at the core of her music. Her mission is clear: to inspire her audience, ensuring that no one leaves her performance unchanged. She hopes her lyrics resonate deeply, allowing her music to positively impact others.
August
August 2
Trío Guadalevín
Trío Guadalevín explores the musical dialogue between Indigenous, European and African cultures which define Latin American identity. With memorable stories and an incredible array of instruments from the Americas, Africa and Europe the trio weaves together a tapestry of music, languages, culture, history and geography.
** Trío Guadalevín is a featured band at all of our concert series this summer as the culmination of a 2-year multimedia storytelling project about Hispanic and Latine history in Washington.
August 9
Les Coeurs Criminels
Les Coeurs Criminels is a Cajun Dance Band, bringing a little bit of Louisiana to the Northwest. Dance instructor, TBD.
Paul Denison, Kelsey Nelson, etc.
August 16
Dunton Sisters
Bluegrass
The Dunton Sisters have family roots deep in traditional music. Their grandfather performed in a gospel quartet sponsored by Stamps-Baxter, famous publishers of shape-note hymns. When he moved to Washington State, he brought his music with him. The Dunton Sisters are Jen on vocals and guitar, Bev on vocals and mandolin, Jill on vocals and guitar, Jackie on drums, Mother Gae on bass, and Rick (Jill's husband) on vocals, guitars and keyboards.
August 23
Schmid & Guest
Cayley Schmid and Aaron Guest met at the Bellingham Farmers Market in 2009. Jealous of each other’s busking success, they neutralized the competition and started a band together. This was the beginning of a decade-long musical partnership that descended into marriage. After the retirement of their band, Polecat, in 2020, Aaron and Cayley suddenly found themselves musically unsupervised by their bandmates for the first time. Together they play instrumental Celtic music on fiddle and piano. Tunes range from lively reels and jigs to sweeping airs and waltzes, and drawing from Scottish, Cape Breton, and Irish traditions.
*Free concerts. Discover Pass required for vehicle access
This event is accessible to persons with disabilities. If special accommodations are required in order to attend, please call (360) 701-7923. For hearing and speech-impaired, call the Washington Telecommunications Relay Service (800) 833-6384. Requests must be made in advance.
For more information, please email FolkArts@parks.wa.gov or visit https://parks.wa.gov/folk-and-traditional-arts-program.
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