In the festival’s fifth year, co-producers, Keegan Harshman and Priscilla Lowry balance one another in a way that gives Little BIG Fest its distinctive character. Harshman, by his own admission a whimsical Sagittarian, approaches music as both a social bond and a universal language. Lowry, on the other hand, brings a curator’s eye, a knack for logistics, and a precise attention to detail that helps ground and shape those expansive ideas. Together, their partnership transforms vision into reality, blending spontaneity with structure to keep the festival both imaginative and seamlessly run.

I had the wonderful opportunity to work with the crew of Little BIG Fest in a new light this year: as a vendor! And you can also read my article on Little BIG Fest in Issue 22 of Whidbey Life Magazine. As they close the chapter on their sixth year in operation, the festival light only dims briefly, as they recharge for the 2026 year. Here’s a little snippet of last year’s festivities:

The festival grounds buzzed with local artisans and food vendors, adding another layer of island culture to the mix. Washington Design Co., a festival staple, offered live screen printing of exclusive Whidbey Island and Little BIG Fest designs. Visitors could take home handmade treasures ranging from candles and jewelry to spicy jams and musical equipment.

Voices from the Stage

Among this year’s standout performers was Rayko, frontman of the band Cockophonix, known for their wildly original sound—a blend of deranged saloon tunes, New Orleans street jazz, and carnival-style circus punk.

“We discovered and connected with the Whidbey Island music store, Blue Sound Music,” Rayko said. “Those folks are a heartthrob, and we love them dearly. New fans came from east siders who’d moved to Whidbey—we reminisced about the dryness and smells of the mountain forests!”

When asked how he’d spend an hour at the festival if he weren’t performing, Rayko laughed. “We’d spend all our money on art and crafts! I nearly did last year: I bought all my Christmas gifts in one day. Homemade candles, spicy jams, and honey, a personal favorite! Then we’d hit the food vendors and get ourselves belly-laden. I especially loved the gyros last year.”

Beyond the Festival

Though the weekend has come to a close, Little BIG Fest’s creative spirit carries on throughout the year. Washington Design Co. continues to offer custom festival merchandise online, and the LBF crew is already planning upcoming seasonal celebrations: Winter Soulstice, Earth Day, and Summer Soulstice, which all lead up to the next big festival in August 2026.

Be sure to check out their next event: Saturday, December 20th