2012 NMF headliner Andrew Bird was succinct in his praise of the Nelsonville Music Festival: “It’s the perfect size festival. Any bigger and you’d lose something.”

Set on the picturesque grounds of Hocking College’s Robbins Crossing, the fest has managed to maintain that intimate feel despite hosting bigger and bigger acts each year (past headliners include Wilco, Willie Nelson and The Avett Brothers).

Much of the event’s charm stems from the two smaller stages: the “Porch” stage, set in a grassy, shady area next to a charming log cabin (and its porch), and the super-intimate “No-Fi” cabin, where musicians play unamplified in a small room that seats around 25.

Keeping the area clean and green has been a major goal for the fest organizers. Over the past few years, the NMF has partnered with Rural Action in an attempt to become a zero-waste festival. Over time, the festival’s system has been refined and improved in its effort to strive for “zero waste,” or a 90% diversion rate. In 2014, that goal was achieved with a 96.5% diversion rate.

The campground opens at 12 p.m. on Thursday, May 28, with the festival gates opening at 5 p.m. on Thursday and 9 a.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Tickets ordered in advance may be picked up at the Admissions Tent at the Main Festival Entrance with a photo I.D.

Weekend passes for all four days are on sale now for $140 (plus fees). Single day tickets are: $45 (plus fees) on Thursday; $80 (plus fees) on Friday; $70 (plus fees) on Saturday); and $60 (plus fees) on Sunday.

Thanks to an anonymous sponsor, festival organizers are able to offer a “two for one” deal on Sunday. As of May 26, each person who purchases a Sunday-only ticket will receive a free additional ticket. Both ticket holders must arrive at the gate at the same time. VIP weekend passes and camping are also available.

The Nelsonville Music Festival is a production of Stuart’s Opera House, a historic non-profit theater located in Nelsonville that features more than 75 events a year, including live music, theater, films, educational programming and more. Visit www.stuartsoperahouse.org for more information.