PALM COAST, Fla. – There are music festivals—and then there’s the kind where the stories behind the songs matter just as much as the songs themselves. The Palm Coast Songwriters Festival proved once again that it belongs firmly in the latter category, pulling in close to 10,000 attendees over five unforgettable days across Flagler County.
From the laid-back charm of the pre-show at the Golden Lion Café and free community show at the Hammock Grill by JT’s, to the sold out Bloody Mary Brunch Bash at The Landing Strip, the members and guests-only polished atmosphere of Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa, and the high-energy main stage at the Daytona State College Amphitheater, every corner of the community seemed to hum with melody.
And what melodies they were—hit songs you know by heart, fresh tracks heard for the very first time, and the kind of behind-the-scenes stories that make you hear a lyric differently forever.
From Nine Songwriters to Nearly 50
For co-founder Thom Shepherd, watching the festival grow has been nothing short of surreal.
“Me and Garry Lubi started this festival years ago with nine writers, and now we’re up to 49, and it’s just incredible,” he said. “It keeps growing. It’s so great to see all the people just soaking up the stories and just loving all the songwriter songs. It’s just the best.”
That growth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about connection. Shepherd describes the event as something special even among festivals.
“This is our favorite kind of festival to be a part of and to go to,” he added, even enjoying the festival’s nod to America’s 250th anniversary this year.
“I thought that was great that they had that theme this year. It really cool… This thing is top notch. It just keeps getting better every year.”
Big Crowds, Bigger Energy
Co-founder Garry Lubi could barely contain his excitement about this year’s turnout.
“Just an exciting night. This may be our biggest crowd ever. Huge,” he said.
The festival kicked off in true patriotic fashion on Thursday evening.
“Star Spangled Banner kicked off with Jeffrey Steele, which is always amazing,” Lubi said on Saturday night. “Tonight, we got Jimmy Yeary with Chris DeStefano, which is incredible. Tomorrow, it’s red solo cup day with the Warren Brothers.”
Beyond the performances, Lubi emphasized something many attendees may not see—but feel.
“We were trying to make it feel like home for these songwriters,” he said. “We’re very protective of them. We love them, and plus they get to see friends that they don’t always see. It’s been great.”
A Creative Touch Behind the Scenes
Part of that “home” feeling came from local gallery owner Diana Minotti, who helped transform backstage spaces.
“It’s really an honor,” Minotti said. “It’s a great community thing. It’s a wonderful event, and I can’t wait to do it again next year.”
Her work added a personal, Palm Coast touch—proof that the festival isn’t just hosted in the community, it’s built by it.
Music with a Mission
While the music drew the crowds, the festival’s impact reached far beyond the stage. Funds raised during the event benefited several local charities, including a $5,000 donation to the Flagler County Education Foundation presented Sunday afternoon.
For Frank Petruno, founder of The Lori Fund, also a recipient this year, the cause hits close to home.
“It’s very special,” Petruno said. “I’m grateful to songwriters, to Garry. I hope to be involved with it every year. And I would like to work with Guitars for Vets going forward, to help our veterans.”
More Than a Festival
What makes the Palm Coast Songwriters Festival stand out isn’t just the talent—it’s the feeling. It’s hearing a chart-topping hit stripped down to its bones. It’s laughing at the story behind a lyric you’ve sung a hundred times. It’s watching a crowd of strangers become a community, one chorus at a time.
Or, as Thom Shepherd put it best, “It’s just the best.”
And if this year is any indication, the only direction this festival is headed is up.
