For the past 17 years, Milford, PA has been host to an unusual music festival. One sponsored by local businesses and offering mostly free venues. The 18th incarnation is one of the most ambitious in recent years.

On June 7th, 8th and 9th the annual Milford Music Festival will dominate the fabric of this small artsy town. There will be a wide variety of musical styles as well as a sidewalk shopping festival throughout the business district. All manner of food will be available, from sausage and pepper sandwiches from Fretta’s to the ever popular Dimmick Block Party.

Musical acts are chosen for the Milford Music Festival by the individual business owners in the Milford Business District at their individual premises. In previous years large sponsored events took place in the middle of town. The venues at individual business locations were “side-stages.” But no longer. According to the festival's website, “Milford now takes on a true street festival air and it is intoxicating to be there.” It was the business community that took the festival to heart through the lean years – which organizers acknowledge would have died without the support from these local business owners – and they are working to make the festival one that is a premiere event.

The Milford Music Festival organization itself does not hire any performers. Artists interested in performing contacted individual businesses, or owners who “knew someone” asked them to perform. The acts come from a wide variety of local musicians, regional celebrities and even a few nationally well known names.

The festival starts on Friday June 7 at 1:30 pm, with the Belles of Hudson Valley, a handbell choir, performing at the Belle Reve Senior Living, 404 E Harford Street.

Then, 5 to 7 pm, at the TLC Salon and Spa on Broad Street, Slightly Off (a 1970’s Classic Rock group) will be performing.

The highlight of Friday's events will be a musical showcase called Pikestock. It is the second year Jerry Beaver, owner of the Milford Theatre, will be presenting a variety of performers. Milford Theatre is located at 114 E. Catherine Street. There is no admittance fee.