MONTCALM COUNTY — Take it from northern Michigan's Silver Creek Revival: Performing at Smiling Acres Music Festival in Trufant is "always something special."

"We're so excited to get back out to Smiling Acres," said Jack Jensen, drummer for the Americana and indie-folk band that performs at 2:20 p.m. on Saturday, June 28, during the three-day festival that officially runs Friday-Sunday, June 27-29).

"We've got some newer tunes to debut from our upcoming EP recorded at Dogtown Studios (in Grand Rapids). Playing festivals is our favorite. Getting to hang out with other musicians and see so much music outside in a festival environment is always something special. There's nothing like being under the stars listening to music," he said.

Some 1,200 expected attendees would agree with Jensen, creating "the sense of community and cooperation that seems to come out of thin air," said Nate Drews, who owns the festival site with his wife, Rhonda. 

"What makes (the festival) special in my view is, even though there is something going on in multiple areas at the same time, it is peaceful here," Rhonda added. "Everyone is relaxed and enjoying themselves.

“I look forward to the smiles the most — seeing families and attendees having the best time ever, kids running and laughing and being able to be kids."

The festival has made some tweaks and additions since its debut in 2021 while keeping Smiling Acres the cozy, family-oriented celebration of regional artists that's endeared it to many music lovers who return every year.

The festival this year will feature mega-popular Michigan acts such as Traverse City’s May Erlewine, Midland native Jason Singer of Michigander, Kalamazoo’s The Go Rounds, Grand Rapids’ Desmond Jones, Roosevelt Diggs and Ralston Bowles, and the Ann Arbor area’s Djangophonique and Erin Zindle & The Ragbirds.

A silent disco presented by Ruben Martinez and Lady Ace Boogie of Grand Rapids will also take place, along with other activities.

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The festival takes place at 3060 N. Johnson Road in Trufant, about 35 miles northeast of Grand Rapids and about 70 miles northeast of Holland.

Adult tickets for the weekend are $95, including camping, and $25 for children 6-12. Children 5 and younger are admitted free. Adult day passes are $50. Weekend camping passes will cost $135 at the gate. Get tickets and more information online at smilingacresfestival.com. 

— Find more Michigan music news and concert listings at LocalSpins.com. Email John Sinkevics at john@localspins.com.