Lancaster, Ohio — The Lancaster Festival Board of Directors has unveiled a significant update to its beverage policy for the Ohio University-Lancaster concert venue, citing new insurance industry requirements for festivals of its type.
Beginning this season, no beverages—alcoholic or non-alcoholic, including water—will be permitted to be brought into the concert venue. This policy applies to all beverages brought by attendees.
“We understand this change may be inconvenient for some of our long-time patrons, but the decision is out of our hands,” said Deb Connell, Executive Director of the Lancaster Festival. “Without proper insurance, we simply cannot hold the festival. We’ve delayed this change as long as possible, but unfortunately, we are now required to implement this policy to continue hosting the Lancaster Festival.”
For years, the Lancaster Festival had been “grandfathered in” under a previous Ohio Revised Code law, allowing festival-goers to bring their own beverages while alcohol was sold on-site. However, recent state law changes now prohibit this practice due to concerns over liability, insurance coverage, and other legal matters.
To meet the increased demand for beverages, more points of sale will be available throughout the concert grounds. Water (16 oz.) will be available for $1, while alcoholic beverages—beer (16 oz.), wine, and pre-made cocktails—will be sold for $8 each. Soda will be available for $3. A pre-order beverage option will also be offered with ticket purchases.
Food, including ice to keep it cold, will still be allowed on the grounds, but glass containers are prohibited. Exceptions to the beverage policy will be made for individuals with medical needs, such as baby formula, breast milk, or liquid medications. These individuals will enter through a specific gate for a liquid inspection.
“We appreciate the understanding and patience of our supporters and concert-goers,” Connell added. “We look forward to welcoming everyone to the 2025 Lancaster Festival.”
2025 Lancaster Festival Lineup
This year’s Lancaster Festival promises to be an unforgettable experience, with a fantastic lineup and exciting performances. The festival will run from July 24th to August 2nd, 2025.
Grand Finale Concert: On August 2nd, the festival will feature a co-headlining performance from Colbie Caillat and Dawes, who will take the stage at the Wendel Concert Stage at Ohio University Lancaster for the grand finale.
July 30th Performance: The tribute band Hairball, known for playing rock hits from the ‘70s and ‘80s, will perform on July 30th.
First Saturday Headliner: The headliner for the first Saturday (July 26th) will be revealed at a later date.
Tickets: Tickets for the Grand Finale concert will go on sale May 1st at 10:00 am.
Music Director: The festival is thrilled to announce its new Music Director, John Gennaro Devlin, Conductor.
Lancaster Festival Orchestra: The Lancaster Festival Orchestra will perform on both the first and second Saturdays of the festival.
Venue Details: All concerts will take place at the Wendel Concert Stage, the primary venue located at Ohio University Lancaster. Reserved table seating for 10 people will be available, along with catering options from Barrel & Boar BBQ Factory, Cheers Chalet, and Provisions Bakery and Deli. Food trucks will also be on-site during the festival, operating on Monday and Wednesday.
For more details and updates on the festival, visit LancasterFestival.org or Visit Fairfield County.
“We can’t wait to welcome you to an unforgettable 2025 Lancaster Festival,” Connell added.
