The application process is built for possibility.

“I applied to the LRFest last year, and was soon after contacted by a presenter in NJ. She came out to my next local show and has now booked me twice. Even though I wasn’t chosen as a finalist, it was totally worth the application fee to get my video seen by other presenters. Will definitely apply again!” — Emerald Rae

Festival artists are chosen by a world-wide contest held every spring. Applicants are judged by dozens of house concert presenters in our network, who rate the artist performances on two submitted videos and the content of their website.

• Applications: June-July
• Judging: August
• Announcements: September
• Festival: Feb 28 – March 3, 2024

So what is the festival like for performers?

Artists arrive Tuesday/Wednesday of the festival week, and get settled in with one of their house concert hosts. Although some acts may be playing 3 or more house concerts during the week, it’s best to select one or two hosts to stay with so you don’t have to pack up every day.

Wednesday Night, festival artists attends the opening night mixer. It’s a fun night for artists to relax and get to know each other, pic a few tunes, and get their materials and orientations for the week.

Thursday night, artists will play house concerts around the Tampa Bay area. Some acts will make television or radio appearances during the day.

Friday night is the showcase at the Palladium Theater in St. Petersburg. Each act plays 19 minutes for our biggest audience of the week. You’ll likely recruit some new fans to attend your remaining house concerts in the area.

Saturday night is the big house concert night, and we may have a double-bill performance in the afternoon to allow acts to have afternoon AND evening shows.

Sunday Brunch – Meeting – Concert at Judy’s. Our closing-day tradition brings all our hosts, artists and fans together one last time. The brunch is followed by a festival feedback meeting and a one-set concert.

Sunday Evening – Hat Trick Day. This is an opportunity for fans to attend 3 house concerts in one day.

Your off days (if any) can be filled with rest, sightseeing, museums, and beaches. St. Petersburg is a great city with lots to do! We look forward to a great festival. Good luck!