PHOTO PROVIDED Smoked Country Jam, pictured here in a file photo, will not be returning in 2026.

KETTLE CREEK — Though not initially its plan, organizers of the Smoked Country Jam Bluegrass Festival — held annually at Quiet Oak Campgrounds in Western Clinton County — will not be holding future festivals following its 2025 event.

Teresa and Ron Kodish, who head the organization of the festival each year, shared the announcement Saturday.

“The decision was not easy to make, but we felt that given the uncertainty of the economy, and rising costs of producing the event, along with the physical and mental demands of the festival, it was best that we end Smoke County Jam after 22 wonderful years,” the pair said. “It has truly been an honor to bring so many talented bluegrass performers to our stages, and so much joy to so many people.”

The Kodishes went on to thank the fans that came to the multi-day festival each year for their support over two decades.

“Your belief in the festival has been the wind under our wings. In celebrating 22 years of bluegrass music, community and friendship, we want to pause and express our deepest gratitude to those who have made this festival possible,” they said.

The pair thanked Dave and Carla Flack, owners of Quiet Oaks Campground, for opening their facilities to the festival for 15 years.

“Their hospitality, support and countless contributions have helped SCJ grow into the event it is today, and we are eternally grateful for their partnership and friendship,” the Kodishes said.

They further thanked the Maguire family, who allowed the festival to first begin on their land in 2004; and the Karstetter family for offering their farm as a second home prior to finding a stable home at Quiet Oaks.

“Without the willingness of these families to share their land, this festival would never have taken root,” the Kodishes said.

Continuing in their thanks, the Kodishes thanked Marcy McKinney for her contributions to the success of the festival each year.

“From the initial planning stages to the final wrap-up, Marcy has consistently gone above and beyond, demonstrating an unparalleled commitment and passion,” they said.

The pair also thanked the many sponsors who helped make the event possible over the years.

“Smoked Country Jam has been a celebration of music, community and the spirit of collaboration. None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of our amazing sponsors — the local businesses who have believed in our vision year after year,” they said in thanks.

The couple touched on the reason behind the festival — to raise awareness of Lupus and raise funding toward its research. The festival featured its auction and other fundraisers that were held during the event each year.

“We can proudly say that the festival’s Lupus Auction and other fundraisers have enabled us to raise nearly $70,000 for the Lupus Foundation,” the Kodishes said.

The Kodishes closed out their announcement by thanking the many performers, sound crew and volunteers.

“To our incredible performers, sound crew and the dedicated volunteers who have given their time and hearts over the past two decades — thank you,” they said. “The friendships we’ve made over the last 22 years are the true treasures of SCJ.”

Following the announcement, many community members took to social media to express their gratitude to the festival.

“Well said. We have had the best time and have made so many memories as SCJ,” one commenter said.

One commenter thanked the couple and the festival for launching their career as an artist.

“I, like many other artists, am beyond grateful for the chance you took on me when you welcomed me and my tye dye business into the fold,” they said. “It launched my business to success from the very first time I was there.”

For many expressing their thanks, they noted how the festival became a central part of their summers over the years.

“I’m saddened to learn this news. Smoked Country Jam had become a major centerpiece of my summer, and it will be missed,” one commenter said. “Thanks Ron and Teresa for all of your years in creating this great event, and the many happy memories it generated.”