Now in its 32nd year, MerleFest is well-known as a family-friendly, 4-day music festival tucked into the rolling hills of western NC. Boasting 13 stages, this tight-knit, yet “busking at the seams” festival books the industry’s best from bluegrass, folk, Americana, country, rock, gospel and more. Year after year, festival organizers leave little in terms of wants from their loyal fan base. Whether it is the supersized lineup, intimate songwriter workshops, late night test revivals, kid’s activities, unique local vendors, or square dancing lessons, there is something for absolutely everyone.
Take a look at this year’s lineup and it is easy to see that the loyal Merelfest fan base is about to explode. Stacked with both beloved alumni and a new class of fresh faces, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better music festival at a better price. This year’s headliners include, The Avett Brothers, Brandie Carlile (coming off a heart-wrenching Grammy performance and huge win), Amos Lee, and Wynonna and the Big Noise, along with heavy-hitters Keb’ Mo’, The Milk Carton Kids, and Tyler Childers. Festival traditionalists will find comfort in the return of Jerry Douglas, Sam Bush Band, Peter Rowan, Jim Lauderdale, The Del McCoury Band, Scythian, and The Kruger Brothers to name a few. And don’t forget to stick around for some good ol’ fashioned storytelling, singing, and salvation at Jim Avett’s Gospel Hour on Sunday morning.
EOAF’s 2019 Fresh Face to watch is Molly Tuttle–the magic she creates when her fingers meet the strings will leave your mouth agape and your heart pounding. Check her out yourself:
Muilti-day tickets packages and single-day tickets are now on sale for the April 25-28, 2019 festival. Kids 12 and under are free (what a deal!). The festival takes place on the beautiful, lush campus of Wilkes Community College in Wilkesboro, NC. For more information visit merlefest.org.
Evolution of a Fan 