Question 1

What is the Annapolis Songwriters Festival?

Accepted Answer

The Annapolis Songwriters Festival is modeled after the hugely successful Key West Songwriters Festival, which is in its 30th year, continues to be the largest festival of its kind in the world.  Highlighting the specialized craft that is the essence of music, this festival aims to give music lovers a chance to get to know the names and faces behind the songs in an up-close and personal setting.

Question 2

Where is the festival taking place?

Accepted Answer

The Annapolis Songwriters Festival will be taking place September 10th-13th throughout Downtown Annapolis. Young The Giant will be performing at our Calvert Street Stage located at 44 Calvert Street, just off of West Street and Northwest Street.  Ticketed venues include Rams Head On Stage, Watermark Cruises, and Maryland Hall. Free events will be taking place in bars and restaurants throughout Downtown Annapolis along 'Songwriters Trail' from Metropolitan Kitchen & Lounge to City Dock. Full schedule coming soon!

Question 3

Where do I park? How do I get around Annapolis?

Accepted Answer

There are many parking options available throughout Downtown Annapolis. We suggest parking at any of the following City garages and catching the FREE magenta bus:
 
Hillman Garage (this garage is closest to the City Dock performances) 150 Gorman Street
Gott’s Court Garage - 25 Calvert Street (stop located on West Street, closest to Rams Head Tavern & On Stage)
Park Place Garage - 1 Park Place
Knighton Garage - 1A Colonial Avenue
Whitmore Garage - 25 Clay Street
West Garrett Garage - 275 West Street (stop located across the street at Park Place)
 
Click here for live shuttle tracker

Click here for more information about navigating Downtown Annapolis including ride share options, bird scooters & bikes, close in parking, and more

Question 4

Where is the headlining concert

Accepted Answer

We're switching things up! Due to construction at City Dock, the ASF Main Stage is relocating to Calvert Street, where we're bringing  all the same high-energy vibes for our headlining show!Young The Giant will be performing at the Calvert Street Stage on September 12th. Tickets can be purchased by visiting the 'Tickets' page of our site, or by clicking HERE.

Question 5

What are the rules and regulations for the Calvert Street concert?

Accepted Answer

BAGS: Bags will be checked at the entrance. Please see below for allowable bags and sizing.PHOTOGRAPHY: No professional lens cameras are allowed in venue. Any camera with a detachable lens is considered professional.RE-ENTRY: Re-entry is not permitted. Please ensure that everything you will need for the event is brought in with you. If you do leave at any point in the evening- you will not be allowed back in without a new ticket.SMOKING: Smoking in designated areas only.
CHAIRS: Chairs are not permitted for Young The Giant on September 12th, 2025 performances. *Children 5 and under do not need a ticket for Calvert Street show with a paid adult. PERMITTED ITEMSOne sealed bottle of water or one empty refillable bottle per guest is allowedApproved Bags:Bags smaller than 6" x 6" x 6"Tote or purse smaller than 12" x 6" x 12" (as long as all items are loose)Clear plastic bag smaller than one gallonDiaper Bag Medically Necessary Bags (permitted after proper inspection) PROHIBITED ITEMSOutside food or drinkCoolersWeapons of any kindProfessional Lens Cameras/Tripods or Selfie SticksLaser PointersPetsStrollers or WagonsChairsNon-approved Bags:Backpack Oversized Tote BagCamel PackCamera Case ***Additions and changes to the permitted / prohibited items list may change per event. Please check the event page for specific details before heading to the show.***

Question 6

What shows do I need tickets to? Where can I buy tickets?

Accepted Answer

Ticketed shows include Young The Giant at the Calvert Street Stage on September 12th with more announcements coming soon!
Tickets can be purchased on our 'tickets' page.

Question 7

What kind of music can I expect to hear at the festival?

Accepted Answer

You can expect to hear a wide variety of songs that you know and love and some that you may not recognize, but be prepared to leave with some new favorites! Keep your eyes out for our ASF 2026 Official App to learn more about the songwriters performing at ASF.

Question 8

What music can I see for free?

Accepted Answer

In addition to our ticketed shows there is plenty of free music during the Annapolis Songwriters Festival! Full festival schedule will be available soon in our Official App and can also be viewed on our 'schedule' page, also coming soon!

Question 9

Is there VIP access to the festival?

Accepted Answer

Yes!  We will soon announce an All Access VIP Option. Currently we do offer a VIP Pit Ticket for Dirty Heads that Includes: VIP Viewing Area directly in front of the stage, Open Bar, Up to 4 hours of free parking at Gott's Garage or Knighton Garage.

Question 10

There are so many music options.  How can I plan where to go?

Accepted Answer

We will be launching the festival app soon where you can see the current schedule, add shows to your list, read about all the ASF artists, view a festival map, and check out points of interest.

Question 11

Where can I stay?

Accepted Answer

Visit the 'hotels' tab under 'plan your visit' on the homepage to check out our hotel partners. 
Visit Annapolis and Anne Arundel County also has a comprehensive list of all area hotels here.

Question 12

Is the festival handicapped accessible?

Accepted Answer

All ticketed shows and most free showcases are accessible to concert goers with a disability. The Annapolis Songwriters Festival is committed to ensuring that facilities are fully accessible. If you require additional accommodations please email boxoffice@ramsheadgroup.com

Question 13

Where can I buy festival merch?

Accepted Answer

Merch can be purchased at our homebase, Rams Head Tavern located at 33 West Street in Downtown Annapolis.  We are also selling merch via our website link “buy merch” (online sales will pause during the festival)!

Question 14

What should I bring to the festival?

Accepted Answer

Bring your positive attitude, willingness to explore new music, state issued ID, and all your best friends!

Check out our rules and regulations for the City Dock shows.

Question 15

Do I need to buy a ticket for my child under 5 years old for the Calvert Street Stage show on September 12th?

Accepted Answer

Kids 5 and under are FREE for Young The Giant at the Calvert Street Stage.

Question 16

How do I download the Official App?

Accepted Answer

The Official ASF 2026 App is coming soon!

Frequently asked questions