Kids Activities Overview
September 18-20, 2026 in Tygh Valley, Oregon
We’re excited to offer youth programming this year! Take a look below for an overview of activities we have planned for the Tygh Valley Bluegrass Jamboree —
Kids 18 and under get free entry to the festival.
As always, kids 18 years old and under are granted free admission to the Tygh Valley Bluegrass Jamboree!
Mobile Arts Center (all ages are welcome!)
The Mobile Arts Center by the South Morrow Arts Center is a creative, hands-on space designed especially for children and families to explore, play, and make art together. Young festival-goers can enjoy a variety of tactile activities including blowing bubbles, painting rocks, building with LEGOs, and other creative projects that encourage imagination and self-expression.
A volunteer will be present at the Mobile Arts Center throughout the event to help facilitate activities and ensure materials are available. All ages are welcome! Kiddos under the age of 5 must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.
Drop in during the festival to create, play, and make your own artistic creations!
Instrument Discovery Center (all ages are welcome!)
Have you ever wondered what it feels like to play a violin, strum a guitar, pick a banjo, or keep a beat on a drum? The Instrument Discovery Center gives children and youth the opportunity to explore a variety of musical instruments in a fun, welcoming, hands-on environment.
Designed for all ages and experience levels, this activity is perfect for younger children who want to experiment with ukuleles, drums, and simple percussion instruments, as well as school-aged youth interested in trying instruments such as violin, guitar, mandolin, or banjo. Participants are encouraged to touch, play, and discover the unique sounds each instrument can make.
Friendly volunteers will be available to introduce instruments, answer questions, and offer basic guidance. All ages are welcome! Children under the age of 5 must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.
Come explore, make some noise, and discover a new musical passion!
Kids Instrument Workshop (ages 10-15)
In the Tuesday String Band Mission Statement, band members pledge to “educate the next generation of pickers.” These musicians are no strangers to hosting Bluegrass workshops, clinics, and assemblies in schools, after-school music programs, and at music festivals throughout the country. Kids should attend this workshop without an adult. Instruments will be available to use during this session if needed — otherwise, kids should bring an instrument. All skill levels welcome.
Sing Together with Heather Blackbird
Join vocalist and music educator Heather Blackbird for a fun and engaging workshop designed especially for children ages 8+. Through games, movement, and simple vocal exercises, participants will explore their voices, build confidence in singing, and discover the joy of making music together.
Children will learn a selection of easy-to-sing songs that can be shared throughout the festival, creating opportunities to join in community singing and connect with other festival-goers. No previous musical experience is necessary—just bring your curiosity, creativity, and willingness to sing!
Come find your voice, learn some songs, and help fill the festival with music!