Each January, as the Ozarks settle into the quiet lull of winter, a vibrant pulse builds in the historic streets of Eureka Springs — one born of strings, rhythms, and late-night jams. The Ozark Mountain Music Festival returns Thursday, Jan.15, through Sunday, Jan. 18, for another multi-day celebration, transforming downtown into an intimate, music-filled gathering where Americana, bluegrass, folk, and roots sounds spill from stages, hallways, and packed rooms long after dark.
Centered at the historic Basin Park Hotel and expanding into beloved downtown venues like Chelsea’s Corner Café & Bar, the festival is known for its walkable layout and closeup performances. Instead of sprawling fields, OzMoMu places artists and audiences shoulder-to-shoulder, creating a setting where discovery is constant and connection feels natural.
A Lineup Full of Acoustic Magic — And Headliners Who Shine After Dark This year’s lineup features more than 30 bands performing across multiple stages—blending nationally touring artists with regional standouts and beloved local voices. Highlights include:
• The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band — fiery, blues-driven roots rock delivered with raw intensity.
• Front Porch — tight harmonies and modern Americana sensibilities.
• Sad Daddy — gritty, heartfelt songs with swagger and soul.
• High Lonesome — evocative folk-rooted melodies that pull listeners in.
• Goodnight, Texas — narrative- rich songwriting wrapped in roots-inflected sound.
• Wheelwright, Flat River Band, Buffalo Galaxy, and a full slate of regional and national touring artists.
• Local and regionalf avorites — including Chris Harp, Ponder the Albatross, Ashtyn Barbaree and Steve Jones, bringing the authentic sound and spirit of the Ozarks to the festival stages.
As the sun goes down, the energy ramps up. Evening and late-night sets—especially those spilling into Chelsea’s — are where OzMoMu becomes unforgettable, with packed rooms, spontaneous collaborations, and jam sessions that stretch well past midnight.
The OzMoMu Vibe
What keeps fans returning year after year isn’t just the lineup— it’s the vibe. Past reviews and attendee buzz consistently describe OzMoMu as welcoming, community-driven, and refreshingly unpretentious. Artists mingle freely with fans, first-time attendees find themselves pulled into conversations and jams, and discovering a new favorite band feels inevitable. The festival’s winter timing only heightens the experience, turning a cold-weather weekend into a warm, music- filled escape.
Spotlight: The Brothers Comatose at the City Auditorium
Saturday night’s centerpiece performance features The Brothers Comatose, taking the stage at the historic City Auditorium. Known for their high-energy blend of bluegrass, folk-rock, and harmony-driven songwriting, the San Francisco- based band has earned a national following for shows that feel more like celebrations than concerts.
Founded by brothers Ben and Alex Morrison, The Brothers Comatose combine traditional string-band instrumentation with modern songwriting and a rock-infused edge. Their live performances are marked by tight harmonies, kinetic banjo and fiddle lines, and an infectious spirit that draws the audience into the music—making them a perfect fit for OzMoMu’s immersive atmosphere.
Tickets for The Brothers Comatose at the City Auditorium, along with festival passes and individual event access, are available at: https://ozarkmountainmusicfestival. com/ tickets/
A Festival with Deep Local Roots
Behind the Ozark Mountain Music Festival — and several of Eureka Springs’ most recognizable annual celebrations — is Mary Howze. Howze produces or supports major events including the New Year’s Eve Bash with a Splash, Ozark Mountain Music Festival, Eureka Springs Blues Party, Hillberry, and Christmas at the Crescent. For festival and event inquiries, Howze can be reached at eurekaspringsproductions@ gmail.com.
Locals can enjoy single-day passes for Thursday and Sunday passes available for just $25— https://www.reserveeureka. com/attractions/ozmomu
A Winter Tradition Worth the Trip
From afternoon listening rooms to late-night jams and a marquee headliner at the City Auditorium, the Ozark Mountain Music Festival offers a rare blend of intimacy and energy. It’s a winter weekend where music lovers trade crowds for connection—and leave Eureka Springs already planning their return.