How to Find a Bluegrass Jam Near You

Finding your people

Here at jamfinder.org we put a lot of work into including every public jam we can find. But don't give up if there isn't one listed in your area. Many jams are more private than public, and the best way to find them is to get out and meet the people who play.

1. Start with the Jamfinder map

The Jamfinder map shows recurring bluegrass, old-time, gospel, and acoustic jams across the US and around the world. A few ways to use it:

Search by jam name or city with the search box above the list.
Tap Locate Me to center the map on where you are. It only uses your location when you tap it.
Filter by type, such as Bluegrass, Old-time, or Gospel, to see just the jams you want.
Tap a pin or a list row to see the schedule, time, venue, and contact info, then open the jam's own page for full details.

Jams change nights, take summer breaks, or move to new venues, so check with the host before you make the drive.

2. Visit your local music stores

Music stores are a natural meeting place for pickers. Ask the staff whether they know of any jams or picking get-togethers in the area, and check the bulletin board by the door. Some stores host jams or lessons of their own.

3. Go to regional music events

Concerts, fiddlers' conventions, workshops, and open mics draw the people you want to meet. Bring your instrument when it makes sense, introduce yourself, and stay a while after the show.

4. Pick in the festival parking lot

At many bluegrass festivals, some of the best music happens away from the stage, in the campgrounds and parking lots. Walk around, listen, and when a circle looks open, ask if you can join in. It's one of the friendliest ways to meet pickers from all over your region.

5. Talk to other pickers

Every picker you meet knows a few more. Ask where they play and who they play with. Many times you'll end up with invitations to private picking events, or find out about a new jam forming that's not yet on our map.

6. Check bluegrass associations and Facebook groups

Many states and regions have a bluegrass or old-time music association. They often keep event calendars, put on festivals, and know about local jams. Local Facebook groups for bluegrass, old-time, or acoustic music in your area are another good place to ask, and many jams post their updates there.

7. Found a jam that isn't listed?

Please check with the organizer that it's okay to list before you add it to jamfinder.org or any other public site. Sometimes it's just a group of friends who aren't looking to expand.

Being invited to one of these is always a privilege, so keep the best-kept secrets right where they are!

Ready to play?

Head to the Jamfinder map to find a jam near you. If you run a public jam, or the organizer has said it's okay to list one, add it so other pickers can find it. Before you go, read our jam etiquette guide.

Add a jam

Pickers near you How to Find a Jam