2026 Festival Extras

Director’s seminar **RETURNING**
On Thursday afternoon we will offer a session specifically for Directors/Conductors (for an additional fee).  The agenda will be available once registration has opened. 

Opening Dinner, Concert and Member Meeting
We will kick off the Festival with a dinner on Thursday evening which is included with your registration.  The BronzeFest choir will perform and we will also hold the required member meeting (we promise it won’t be long!).

Bonus “Warm-Up” Rehearsal
A low-stress opportunity to ring through the music before the first downbeat on Friday morning.  This event will be free of charge this year. 

Showcase Concert
Another change for this year is the format of the Showcase Concert.

  • The concert will take place during the provided lunch on Friday, June 19th.
  • We are opening the concert to ANY performers, not just handbells and not just musicians! Do you have another musical talent you would like to share?  Are you a magician or a stand-up comedian?  Please make sure your offering is family-friendly and a-political.   Music stands and a keyboard can be provided as needed. An application will be made available after registration opens.   

FREE Evening
The board listened to your feedback and we have built in a FREE evening to the schedule.  After registration opens, we will provide information about restaurants and activities in the area.  Or feel free to do your own research.  We are also tentatively planning a group event at SmashPark for those that want. 

Music Swap **RETURNING**
Back by popular demand!!  Do you have music sitting in your file cabinets that your choir hasn’t rung for 20 years? Are you looking to expand your limited library? Do you like to recycle? Bring all those dusty folders of handbell music that you’re ready to part with to Festival next summer. Leave them in a designated place we will have available. For a donation to the Area 8 Scholarship fund, other Festival participants can take some or all of what you brought.

Silent Auction **RETURNING**
Funds raised from the Auction will assist with scholarships for future Festivals. Check your closets and attics now to see what you might donate. Gift cards, services, and other creative items are always welcome. Be ready to bid on some soon-to-be-favorite take-aways. Check the website and future Quavers issues for more information.