Dead on the Creek 2025

Dead on the Creek 2025

Featuring the music of the Grateful Dead, the Jerry Garcia Band, and the Allman Bros. Multiple genres, including bluegrass, country & rock.

By Uncle John Phillips

Date and time

August 8 · 8am - August 10 · 11pm PDT

Location

50350 US-101

50350 U.S. 101 Laytonville, CA 95454

Refund Policy

No Refunds

About this event

Created in the backyard of a Mendocino watershed, Dead on the Creek became an annual event for seventeen years. It was known for its intimacy and all-inclusive nature.

After a several year hiatus, it has emerged at the historic Black Oak Ranch in Laytonville, Ca. Here, much of the same character has been reproduced. Attendance is limited to 500 ticket buyers so that all can be close to the stage, with minimal wait times for amenities.

Central to the show is the production and sharing of high quality meals. These are prepared on site by the in-house crew. Ingredients are sourced from the local agrarian community and fused to create healthy food for the various food preferences.

Other amenities include tie dye workshops, kids’ activities, yoga sessions, creek access and craft vendors. Shade from the sun is provided by both constructed cover and the majestic oak trees. Camping can take place under these same trees, with vehicles or otherwise.

Dead on the Creek is three days of family fun in a peaceful, rural place. For full details, visit deadonthecreek.net.

2025 Lineup

Friday 08.08.2025
Shakedown Strings | Halden Wofford & the Hi*Beams |Freestone Peaches

Saturday 08.09.2025
Mason's Children | Shakedown String Band | Brown Eyed Women | Stu Allen & Mars Hotel

Sunday 08.10.2025
Alamo Mission Band | Broken Compass Bluegrass Band | Achilles Wheel

Frequently asked questions

Will there be alcohol at event?

Yes. Beer, wine and cider can be purchased at the event. Attendees are also allowed to bring their own.

I bought a ticket but now I can't attend. Can I get a refund?

No refunds will be given. However, we are ok with you transferring your ticket(s) to someone else if you email Uncle John at arborwood49@gmail.com & give us their full name (first and last) and email address, so we can send them relevant information before the event, and check them off upon arrival.

What is the camping area like, and is it far from the stage?

There are walk-in sites and vehicle camping areas for all sizes and types of vehicles (no RV hookups though), and all are in close proximity to the main stage area. Most areas are shaded by oak trees.

What about cooking at the camping areas, making coffee, etc?

Cooking is allowed with camp stoves supported off the ground (table, tailgate, etc.) No open fires, including grills, bbq’s or candles are permitted.

What about bathrooms and showers?

There are two restroom trailers with flush toilets. These are supplemented with the standard, non-flush porta potties. Shower facility is provided.

What about kids?

Kids of all ages are most welcome. As of this writing in January, there are no organized activities for them. If anyone would like to be involved in helping create activities, please contact Uncle John.

Is swimming available?

Access to the Creek at two locations is allowed for swimming and wading. There are no lifeguards and children must be accompanied by a capable adult.

It sounds great. Can I bring my sweet, well-behaved dog?

No dogs or pets of any kind are allowed anywhere on the festival grounds. Service animals are allowed as defined under the ADA, however Emotional Support Animals are not allowed. All service animals will need to be registered at the time of ticket purchase.

Organized by

Uncle John Phillips

Uncle John Phillips hosted the beloved Dead on the Creek festival on his land near Willits for 17 years. After several years hiatus, in 2024, he brought back this special experience of music, food, fun and dancing to the legendary Black Oak Ranch.

$0 – $335.22