PREVIEW | MerleFest 2009

Humble beginnings as a Wilkes Community College fundraiser has seen MerleFest become a world renowned music festival. This musical event was known as the Merle Watson Memorial Festival until the summer of 1994, when it simply became MerleFest.
Sometimes dubbed the "Superbowl of Bluegrass", this year's artist line-up includes Doc Watson, Sam Bush, Del McCoury Band, Tony Rice, Emmylou Harris, David Bromberg, Linda Rondstadt, The Carolina Chocolate Drops, Travis Tritt, The Duhks, and many many more. MerleFest begins its 22nd year and is set for April 23-26, once again on the campus of WCC. Don't expect to get your drink on here, MerleFest is alcohol free.
Offering four days of performances by almost 100 performing artists on 15 stages, MerleFest is sure to have something for everyone. Even the kids have the Little Pickers Area, which offers up plenty of arts and crafts. There's also unique musical acts selected with children and the young at heart in mind. Oh, and there's free parking and shuttle services too.
The Appalachians of Western North Carolina set the perfect mood for a can't-miss weekend of stellar music with roots that spread deep below the festival grounds.

MerleFest
April 23-26
Wilkes Community College
Wilkesboro, NC
www.merlefest.org
CLICK HERE FOR TICKET INFO
Be sure to check back, as photo coverage from this year's MerleFest will be posted soon.