LOCALadk Magazine

LOCALadk 19 so we set to distinguish ourselves through the music we offer. We had to ask ourselves, how do you present music over the course of a full day? Featuring music from different genres is a way to pull people back in and hold their interest. The lineup is designed with an energy flow in mind, rather than sticking to one specific genre." Typically, the festival offers folk-style music as a tribute to its Hobofest roots, then gradually builds up the energy with larger bands and diverse music genres. The day starts with attendees sitting in their lawn chairs, and by the end, everyone is on their feet dancing. "The festival has a flow that's intentional, and the energy increases throughout the day," Munley adds. The Festival Experience Northern Current is not just about music; it's about community. Admission is free, making it accessible to everyone. Held rain or shine, it features a large tent to keep attendees dry in case of bad weather. The festi- val is a family-friendly event, with a kid zone featuring activities from Play ADK and ADK ArtRise. The location at Riverside Park adds to the festival's unique charm. Nestled on the shores of Lake Flow- er, the park offers stunning views of the lake, sur- rounding mountains, and the downtown area. It's not uncommon to see boats dropping anchor or people paddling up to listen to the music. The setting itself becomes a part of the experience, enhancing the sense of connection between the performers and the audience. The atmosphere at Northern Current is described by many as holistic and multi-generational. It's a place where people from all walks of life come together to enjoy music and celebrate the last days of sum- mer. The sense of community is tangible, with local businesses and organizations playing a crucial role in making the festival possible. Community and Collaboration Morris highlights the festival's reliance on commu- nity support: "We always go out of our way to call Northern Current a community music festival, which simply means that our collective community comes together to make it happen. To compile a full day of music every year requires a ton of support from a lot of businesses and organizations in the community." Dozens of local businesses consistently provide the necessary funding, while lodging properties donate rooms for traveling musicians. Private foundations and grants, like the Statewide Community Regrants Program, also play a significant role. Marketing and Hospitality Department Head Kiki Sarko further acknowledges the communal effort behind the event: "Volunteers are the backbone of our continued success, with over 50 people contribut- ing their time and effort in the lead-up to the event, ensuring everything runs smoothly on the day. It's a labor of love and everyone is willing to show up and help, which circles back to the power of community." From left to right: Brandy Hobson, Chris Morris, Rachel Karp, Abbey Lynch, Luke Meissner, Eric Munley, Kiki Sarko, Jennifer King, Dan King, and Emily M. O'Mahony (front).

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