Each ticket to AvalonFest includes full use of the facilities at the 250-acre Avalon Resort, but not access to any rooms. Instead, campgrounds are offered for both nights of the festival - Friday and Saturday. Resort amenities include a pool, a spa with various treatment options, a full-service restaurant and various bars. Miles of hiking trails run through the natural landscape as well, all of which can be explored during the days of the festival.
While the lineup of performers at AvalonFest changes every year, the styles of music that are offered do not. In 2011, some of the headlining acts include Coyote Run, a Celtic music band, The Carpenter Ants, playing rhythm and blues and Christobel & the Jons, a band incorporating old-time swing and honky-tonk melodies. Other genres typical of AvalonFest include folk, bluegrass, jazz and world music.
Every year, AvalonFest also hosts a songwriting contest, which allows it to showcase unknown talent interested in performing original songs at the festival. Applicants submit two original songs and are judged by a panel looking for the most inventive lyrics. Four finalists are chosen. These individuals each receive two festival tickets and are allowed to perform their two songs at the festival. The winner receives a cash prize, a trophy and a 30-minute performing spot at next year's festival.
In addition to showcasing an array of musical performances, AvalonFest has numerous vendors every year. These vendors offer a variety of arts and crafts, from homemade jewelry to paintings. Interested vendors must send in an application as spots during each festival are limited. Food is available by AvalonFest in the form of breakfast, lunch and dinner vouchers for the resort's restaurant. Snack bars and smaller food vendors are also available.
