Summer is quickly winding down, kids going back to school, and September nearly upon us. Where has the time gone? Luckily for us in Dayton, there is an end of summer festival that serves as a fantastic last hurrah: the annual Hog Jam music festival, running strong in it’s 12th year!

As the event has evolved over the years, the location has bounced around a few very special sites. This year’s event is back “home” – located just south of Dayton, in Franklin Ohio’s VFW campgrounds, right off 75. It’s a sprawling property with a covered stage, plenty of shade, and easy access to many amenities.

It’s no surprise Hog Jam is such a popular event for area music fans: it showcases the region’s best singer / songwriters, as well as amazing bands on the local, regional, and even national stage. Awesome bands including the up-and-coming sensation Dawg Yawp, Johnny Neel (formerly of Allman Brothers fame), local faves Subterranean, Electric Orange Peel, Great Northern String Band, Jah Soul, my fave for many reasons, Jack Ballengee Morris, among many others! The music runs late into the night, so camping is encouraged, and including in the ticket price.

Hog Jam started as a backyard picnic with a hog roast, so it serves as the namesake and the festival’s longest traditions. Organizers invite you to break bread, have some drinks, and decide who gets to take the pig ear home to the dog! Additional food vendors will be on site to ensure no one goes hungry. Speaking of hunger, this year’s proceeds benefit The Foodbank!

No weekend babysitter? No worries! The entire family is welcome to this family friendly event, which includes bounce houses, arts & crafts, and a playground for the kids. So no excuses staying home this time! Get your summah on while you’ve got the chance! This is definitely one of the “don’t miss” local music events of the season!