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Merlefest

Kristi Marion Updated: April 27, 2017 Events Leave a comment

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merlefest logoMerlefest is an annual four-day traditional and contemporary roots music festival featuring bluegrass, folk and Appalachian roots music from across the country. Happening this year from April 27- 30, 2017, Merlefest takes place on the campus of Wilkes Community College in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, and is a favorite of thousands in the area. Originally hosted by folk music legend and Grammy Award-winner Doc Watson until his passing in 2012, Merlefest was named after Doc’s late son, Eddie Merle Watson, who died in a tragic tractor accident. This will be the first MerleFest since Doc Watson’s death.

Great Lineup for 2017

Scythian playing on stage: MerlefestThe 2017 Merlefest marks the 30th anniversary of the first Merlefast. The lineup consists of more than 100 artists performing across 13 stages, including Zac Brown Band, The Avett Brothers, Bela Fleck, James Taylor, Jerry Douglas, Aly Bain, Sarah Jarosz, John Doyle. Transatlantic Orchestra, Marty Stuart, Del McCoury Band, Leftover Salmon, Sam Bush, The Kruger Brothers, Mandolin Orange, Mipso, Scythian, Jim Lauderdale, The Waybacks, Donna the Buffalo and so much more with more bands coming on board in the coming month. In addition to world-class music, the festival offers a large children’s activities area, called “The Little Pickers,” a student showcase for children, “Pickin’ Place” for any musician to join in and jam, the Songwriters Coffeehouse, crafters and over 70 vendors to shop from. Camping and RV area available at nearby River’s Edge Campground.

Tickets

The Waybacks at Merlefest 2012Ticket prices range from $55-$75 Single Day Passes to $170-$260 Multi-Day Passes with early bird discounts before April 26. Children 12 and under are FREE in the general admission seating areas, however, tickets are required for everyone in the reserved seating area. Purchase tickets at www.merlefest.org. Proceeds from the Fest benefit Wilkes Community College.

Address

1328 S Collegiate Dr.
Wilkesboro, NC
Phone: 1-800-343-7857
email: merlefest@wilkescc.edu

Kristi was born and raised just up the road in Mount Airy (a.k.a. Mayberry) and frequented Winston-Salem often growing up for school field trips, shopping, and dining. After attending Appalachian State University, and a brief stint living in Southern Virginia, Kristi returned to Winston-Salem, NC in 1999 and began her work in non-profit, public relations and writing. She and her family enjoy the convenience of living near downtown Winston-Salem. She enjoys the arts, photography and cooking. "I'm a small town girl at heart, but Winston-Salem isn't an overwhelming city. It is rich with friendly people, history, culture and has a vibrant art community and that is why I am proud to call this "My Winston-Salem!"

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