1st Annual Sunshine State Bluegrass Camp
October 5-8, 2026
Join us for a fun, hands-on bluegrass experience hosted by the Sunshine State Bluegrass Foundation at Penny Lane Emporium in Fort Lauderdale.
This unique 4-day camp is designed for both kids and adults who want to learn bluegrass music in an engaging, social environment. Whether you are brand new or already play an instrument, you will gain confidence, improve your skills, and experience the joy of playing with others.
What makes this camp special is our “Band Camp” format—every participant is placed into a small group and will rehearse and perform together throughout the week.
Camp Dates
October 5-8
Kids Camp (Ages 8–14)
3:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Cost: $175
Students will learn the basics of bluegrass instruments including guitar, banjo, mandolin, and fiddle. Each day includes group instruction, instrument breakout sessions, and band practice. The camp concludes with a fun performance for family and friends.
Adult Camp
6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Cost: $225
Perfect for beginner to intermediate players, this program focuses on rhythm, soloing, jamming, and ensemble playing. Participants will join a small band, work on songs together, and perform in a final showcase.
What’s Included
Daily instruction with experienced teachers
Instrument-specific breakout sessions
Small group band coaching
Guided bluegrass jam sessions
Final performance showcase
No Instrument? No Problem
A limited number of instruments are available to borrow during camp.
Final Showcase
Friends and family are invited to attend our end-of-camp performances on Thursday evening, where students will show what they’ve learned.
Space is Limited
Kids Camp: 10 students
Adult Camp: 15 students
Early registration is recommended.
Location
Penny Lane Emporium
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Monthly Jams
Our Bluegrass Jams
Beginner Bluegrass Jam
Every Wednesday in June and July
(except for July 22nd and July 29th)
6pm-7:30pm
Grab your favorite instrument and pull up a chair, folks! 🪕🎻
We’re hosting a Beginner Bluegrass Jam every Wednesday evening
from 6:00 to 7:30 PM, right in the heart of the Penny Lane Emporium. Whether you’re just learning your first three chords or you've been practicing your rolls in the kitchen, this is a welcoming circle for everyone to share in the high lonesome sound.
This gathering is proudly sponsored by the Bluegrass Sunshine State Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to the preservation and advancement of bluegrass music throughout the great state of Florida.
The jam is totally FREE to attend, but we sure do appreciate a helping hand! Donations are very welcome and go directly toward keeping the heritage of Florida bluegrass picking and grinning for generations to come.
Come on down to Penny Lane, meet some neighbors, and find your rhythm.
Let’s pick!
Advanced Bluegrass Jam -
Every Other Saturday 2-4pm
For more experienced pickers familiar woth the Bluegrass Tradition and who feel comfortable with more challenging speeds
Special Consensus
Live in Concert,
Saturday, March 6, 2027
7:30pm
For five decades, banjo master Greg Cahill has led Special Consensus with a clear musical vision rooted in tradition and driven by innovation. The band’s sound reflects a deep understanding of bluegrass, blending the drive and harmonies of the classic style with contemporary repertoire and adventurous arrangements. Anchored by Cahill’s distinctive banjo style and the powerful lead vocals of Greg Blake, the 2023 and 2025 IBMA Male Vocalist of the Year, alongside Brian McCarty (mandolin and vocals) and Nico Humby (bass and vocals), Special Consensus moves effortlessly from jazz-tinged instrumentals to award-winning originals—always maintaining their bluegrass core while following their creative instincts.
Concert 7:30pm $45 Buy Tickets Here
Banjo Workshop with Greg Cahill 4:30pm $55
We are right inside the Penny Lane Emporium Music Store
3038 N Federal Hwy, Unit M
Fort lauderdale, FL, 33306
954-566-8141