Dairy Daze Fall Music Fest: A Savannah-Born Tradition Rooted in Community, Culture & Cause

What began as a simple idea between two neighbors in the Avondale neighborhood of Savannah has grown into one of the most anticipated grassroots festivals in the region. Dairy Daze Fall Music Fest was envisioned in late 2022 by Michael Edwards—a local attorney with a background in entertainment law and band management—and Matt Toole, an acclaimed sculptor, former art professor, and lifelong musician. Their shared goal was to create an event that celebrates Savannah’s creative spirit while also driving meaningful community support across the Lowcountry.

The inaugural Dairy Daze took place in fall 2023 on the historic Old Roberds Dairy Farm at the end of Tennessee Avenue in Avondale. Nestled between Savannah Victory Gardens, Pegasus Riding Academy, and the tidal marshlands of the Wilmington River, the site offered an intimate yet vibrant setting. That one-day festival featured food trucks, art installations, and live music, with proceeds benefiting Pegasus Riding Academy’s equine-assisted therapy programs. The handmade stage, fire-sculpture installations, and marshside location set a powerful tone for what would become a new tradition in Savannah’s cultural calendar.

Now in 2024, Dairy Daze Fall Music Fest expands to a full weekend celebration. The second edition spans two days and brings together local favorites and touring artists for an immersive outdoor experience. This year’s musical lineup features The Ain’t Sisters, Swamptooth, Xuluprophet, Wymberly, DJ Basik Lee, Ash Gray & the Burners, Elli Perry, Salt Flat Pickers, Banda Cocorocô, and the Andrew Sovine Trio. In addition to music, attendees enjoy visual art, vendor markets, community engagement spaces, and family-friendly programming.

Proceeds from the 2024 festival support the Savannah Environmental Education Center (SEEC), a rising nonprofit committed to outdoor education for families and children. SEEC is currently developing the Tidelands Nature School, a five-day-a-week preschool program rooted in Forest School principles. Launching in August 2025, Tidelands will use the marshlands behind the festival site for hands-on learning. “One of my favorite things about the dairy location,” says SEEC co-founder Jessica Swanson, “is that we’ll be able to take mini field trips back to the marsh. The land itself becomes part of the curriculum.”

Created and produced by The 912 Group, Dairy Daze remains grounded in its original vision: support artists, uplift community voices, and build something local that lasts. Founders Edwards and Toole continue to lead with authenticity, collaboration, and a deep belief in the power of creativity to transform place and purpose.

Unlike commercial festivals, Dairy Daze is entirely grassroots—planned and built by Savannah-based creatives. From the sculpted signage to the carefully curated partnerships, every detail is local. The result is a cultural event that resonates with authenticity and returns value directly to the city. With each passing year, Dairy Daze strengthens its identity as a fall-season staple in Savannah—uniting music, land, and community for something much more powerful than a show.