SHERMAN – For 23 years, the Great Blue Heron Music Festival in the beautiful rolling hills of Chau-tauqua County has provided music entertainment to thousands of people of all ages. Each year, more than 35 national and regional music acts have entertained audiences on three stages making it a very beloved festival to thousands of music fans. The 2014 edition of the festival will happen Friday through Sunday at The Heron in Sherman.

One of the secrets of the music festival’s long-term success is its abundance of non-musical activities, including workshops, dance lessons and activities for children, teens and seniors. All of these are included in the price of admission.

“All the activities help create a multi-generational feel to the festival,” said Festival Logistical Director Julie Rockcastle.

“As a complement to the wonderful music being played throughout the weekend, our non-musical activities make it a family-friendly festival with something to entertain and inspire everyone.”

New to the festival this year is the “Revival Tent” which is dedicated to the healing arts. Festival goers can participate in a myriad of workshops, including yoga, shamanic journeying, drum circles, meditation, salsa and even a session on how chocolate is good for you. The workshops are designed to give attendees an uplifting experience that will travel with them after the festival.

A place devoted to children, and their well-being, the Kids’ Tent, is always a hot spot of activities for young festival goers. There are workshops and performances all day. Compost Theater gives a great show for kids of all ages to learn about composting and recycling. A talent show on Saturday evening gives kids a chance to shine. Crafts are also an important part of the kids’ tent mix with puppet making, origami, face painting, story time and more. Children’s parents are required to be in attendance at the Kids’ Tent.

The Teen Tent is another age-specific tent that caters to the interests of ages 10 and up. The tent features all-day arts & crafts, board games, movies and more. Pottery, hula hoop, tie dye, bracelets and beading, Dungeon & Dragons and much more will also be there. The highlight is the Saturday night beach party. Teens may come and go as they like, parents do not need to be present. Volunteers and project leaders are present during open hours.

Festival goers who are a little “older” will enjoy spending time in the Silver Heron Lounge. The gathering spot is an area where our senior patrons relax and congregate with other festival goers around the same age.

The Great Blue Heron Music Festival is an annual celebration that brings thousands of music lovers to the rolling hills of Western New York each July. The festival features three music stages that have spawned national acts The Avett Brothers, Rusted Root and Lake Street Dive, and festival favorites Donna the Buffalo, The Horseflies, Big Leg Emma, The Town Pants and dozens of other acts. Information about the 23rd Great Blue Heron Music Festival can be found at www.greatblueheron.com .