The army of individuals who make each MerleFest possible usually have a full year to bring together all the artists, volunteers, and vendors that create the magic that brings music fans from all over the country. This year, after postponing the 2021 festival until fall, the turnover time was cut in half. It’s no surprise, though, that they have the stellar lineup music lovers have learned to expect over the thirty-five years of the festival.
First time festival-goers always experience surprises. First, while most people identify the late Doc Watson, who started the festival in memory of his son, the late Eddy Merle Watson, bluegrass and old-time music, the lineup extends to a much wider range of genres.
Second, MerleFest is the ultimate family-friendly venue. Parking is free and shuttles run regularly; the food, provided by churches, clubs, and Scout troops, is delicious and reasonably priced. Alcohol is prohibited on the Wilkes Community College Campus throughout the event, which results in a safe, friendly climate.
Third, the biggest challenge is making choices. With at least a dozen stages throughout the day, usually winding down to the Watson Stage and Cabin Stage at night—and the Dance Stage that keeps rocking—festival-goers must decide whether to pick one spot and stay there or to run from one side of campus to the other.
Big name artists draw new attendees every year. This year, Emmylou Harris, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Alison Russell, and Old Crow Medicine Show are in the lineup. So are the regulars—Peter Rowan, Sam Bush Band, Jack Lawrence, Scythian, Jim Lauderdale, and Donna the Buffalo. This festival offers an opportunity to build a bigger playlist of new discoveries.
By three o’clock Thursday afternoon, folks will be setting up folding chairs with whirligigs to marks their spots once the fields are full. Volunteers will be donning their orange vests and reporting to the various locations across the campus, all part of a well-oiled machine where everyone has the best seat in the house.