Leave it to Featherstone Center for the Arts, the celebrated year-round community arts center, to host Martha’s Vineyard Uke Fest, a ukulele festival honoring the small guitarlike instrument, which takes place this weekend.
While Featherstone hosts weekly “Uke Jams” on Wednesday evenings, Martha’s Vineyard Uke Fest is the first of its kind, and is expected to bring performers and visitors from all across the country. The festivities kick off on Friday, Sept. 18, at Featherstone, where performers will be on hand to greet festivalgoers as they pick up their registration packets.
On Saturday, Sept. 19, the agenda is packed with workshops, ukulele jams, and performances by special guests and local musicians. Announced artists include Faith Ako, Jim and Liz Beloff, Ken Middleton, and Steve McNie. Food will be provided by Scottish Bakehouse of Vineyard Haven.
Martha’s Vineyard Uke Fest, Featherstone Center of the Arts, Oak Bluffs. Opening reception on Friday, Sept. 18 from 5 to 7 pm, and Saturday, Sept. 19, all day. Tickets: $30 per workshop (4 sessions of workshops throughout the day), $40 dinner (6–7 pm), $20 concert ( 7–8:30pm). For more information, visit mvukefest.com.