What’s a Hootenanny?

Hootenanny was an old country word for "party." The word can also refer to a folk music party at which different performers are welcome to get up and play in front of an audience.

According to Pete Seeger, the word "hootenanny" was common parlance in Seattle, Washington in the late 1930s, where it was used by congressman Hugh DeLacy’s New Deal-era political club to describe their monthly music fundraisers. 350BK’s Hootenanny is part of this venerable tradition and features two of New York's great folk music outfits: M Shanghai and Alex Kramer & Friends.

M Shanghai

Alex Kramer

Whereabouts is this Hootenanny?

350Brooklyn’s Holiday Hootenanny for the Planet will transpire at 7pm on December 10, at the legendary Sunny’s Bar in Red Hook. Sunny’s is a fitting venue, situated as it is in an area whose fate is intimately bound to the sea. Operating in one form or another since 1890 and family-owned for generations, Sunny's represents the best of old New York—just as you, our loyal supporters, represent the best of new New York!

But Red Hook? In Winter?

Yes, Red Hook! Just take the B61 and it’s a short 10-minute bus ride to/from Court street at Atlantic. Buddy up with your 350BK committee and ride together! Or, put on you safest winter bike-riding gear and wheel on out under your own power. Still not convinced? After Hootenannying, what could be more fun than an old-school carpool? Ask your 350BK neighbors.

350Brooklyn takes local action to solve the climate crisis. We are an all-volunteer organization and welcome people of all backgrounds, skills, and availability. Interested in volunteering? Contact [email protected]. While we are an affiliate of 350.org, we are programmatically independent and our financial support comes solely from our members. Can you offer financial support? Donate here.