Since Fall 2009, I've been going to Shakori Hills Grassroots Festival of Music & Dance out in Chatham County, NC (near Pittsboro & Silk Hope). The first couple of years I volunteered pre-festival doing a variety of jobs from putting in a dance tent floor, cleaning the farmhouse, to sprucing up flowerbeds with my better half, Terry.
Along about 2011, I started working as a staff photographer for them & I haven't looked back since. I also haven't missed any since then, other than during the highlight of the pandemic when they did not have the festival. Shakori Hills is held twice a year - the first full 4 day weekend in May and the first full 4 day weekend in October.
The most recent festival was May 4-7th, 2023 and it was great to be back documenting the moments, which make this festival very special. From camping life, to a few of the bands, the craft & food vendors, healing arts, the Saturday parade, and more. My concentration is getting the best shots for their printed program, their website, and social media. There are about a dozen photographers covering this wonderful festival and I sure have enjoyed getting to know several of them!
And on that note, it's always great to see our "festival friends", including seeing one of my former 2018 wedding clients Rebecca and her Aunt, Kim Hawks, whom I originally met at one of the first Shakori's I attended. Kim has also been a staff photographer at the festival over the years as well. This year, she and Rebecca were part of the WINGS Women helping prepare for Saturday's parade with the Paperhand Puppet Intervention, Bulltown Strutters, and the children who wanted to join in the parade too.
It was such a incredible weekend, the weather was perfect, and we heard some really great music. Of course our favorite, Donna the Buffalo (and hosts of this festival) Jon Stickley Trio, Sierra Hull, Kyle Travers (Travers Brothership), Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives, Sam Fribush Organ Trio, and a new favorite The Wilson Springs Hotel.
So here on the blog, I'm sharing just a handful of photos from the 4 day weekend, but if you'd like to see all of the photos, please feel free to follow this link - HERE. If you'd like, you'll be able to purchase prints and digital images, however absolutely no obligation! Gallery does expire 6.20.23.
Enjoy the photos and if you've never been to Shakori Hills, you should! Next one will be October 5-8, 2023. Hope to see you there!
all images © Elizabeth Larson Photography
2 Comments
May 30, 2023, 3:49:24 PM
Elizabeth Larson - Yes, I remember you & I do have photos I can share with you! I’ve been away on a camping trip since last Wed, but just got back. I have your biz card on my desk w/ your email address. I’ll share with you when I get caught up. Hope you see this response!
May 24, 2023, 8:27:15 PM
Brooks Letters - Hi Ellizabeth! We met at Shakori & im just reaching out to see if i can possible get any pictures you got of the Botana Cart! We appreciate you stopping by and getting our thoughts on botanicals! Much Love Thank ya big time p.s. would love to tag you on social media if you're able to send us any pictures! the email provided would be awesome & just attach your @name on socials