Some of the Top Bluegrass Festivals in the Blue Ridge

The Blue Ridge Mountains are not only known for their rolling peaks, misty valleys, and scenic drives, but also for their deep-rooted musical traditions. Bluegrass, born from Appalachian folk and country traditions, thrives here like nowhere else in the United States. Each year, the Blue Ridge region hosts a collection of bluegrass festivals that bring together legendary performers, rising stars, and passionate fans for weekends of music, camping, and community. Here are some of the top festivals you won’t want to miss.

MerleFest – Wilkesboro, North Carolina

 

 

Arguably the crown jewel of bluegrass and Americana in the Blue Ridge, MerleFest was founded in 1988 as a tribute to the late musician Eddy Merle Watson, son of Doc Watson. Today, it draws tens of thousands of attendees each April to the campus of Wilkes Community College. Known for its wide-ranging lineup, MerleFest includes bluegrass, folk, Americana, and blues, with multiple stages hosting both major acts and intimate sessions. Beyond the music, the festival emphasizes community, offering workshops, jam tents, and family-friendly activities.

Galax Old Fiddlers’ Convention – Galax, Virginia

 

 

No list of Blue Ridge bluegrass festivals would be complete without the legendary Galax Old Fiddlers’ Convention. Running since 1935, this is the longest-running and perhaps most iconic bluegrass and old-time music gathering in the world.  For 90 years this festival has been a mainstay of the bluegrass community and culture. Each August, Galax transforms into a hub of fiddlers, banjo players, and flat-pickers competing in contests and jamming into the early morning hours. The atmosphere is authentic, steeped in tradition, and deeply tied to the roots of Appalachian culture.

Albino Skunk Music Festival (Skunkfest) – Greer, South Carolina

 

Known affectionately as “Skunkfest,” the Albino Skunk Music Festival has earned a reputation as one of the most unique music experiences in the Blue Ridge region. Held on a family farm in Greer, South Carolina, this twice-yearly event (spring and fall) features bluegrass, Americana, folk, and roots music in an intimate, laid-back setting. Attendees enjoy camping, food trucks, craft vendors, and the chance to hear world-class musicians in a relaxed, community-driven environment. Skunkfest is celebrated not only for its eclectic lineup but also for its family-friendly vibe and warm, welcoming spirit.

FloydFest – Floyd, Virginia

 

 

FloydFest, held each July along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, combines bluegrass with a diverse lineup of folk, jam bands, and world music. It’s more than a festival—it’s a five-day cultural event featuring craft workshops, outdoor adventures, and artisan markets alongside the music. Bluegrass has a strong presence here, with headliners often including traditional favorites and newgrass innovators. The stunning mountain setting, combined with Floyd’s artistic spirit, makes this a one-of-a-kind gathering.

Earl Scruggs Music Festival – Mill Spring, North Carolina

 

 

Celebrating the legacy of banjo legend Earl Scruggs, this newer festival has quickly established itself as a premier event in the Blue Ridge. Held at the Tryon International Equestrian Center, it offers a mix of traditional and progressive bluegrass, with top-tier acts paying homage to Scruggs’ revolutionary picking style. Comfortable facilities, nearby lodging, and a family-friendly setup make it particularly appealing for those seeking a polished festival experience.

Mountain Song Festival – Brevard, North Carolina

 

Hosted each September by the Steep Canyon Rangers, Mountain Song Festival celebrates bluegrass and roots music while raising money for the Cindy Platt Boys & Girls Club of Transylvania County. Located in the charming mountain town of Brevard, the festival emphasizes both community and artistry. The intimate setting, combined with top-notch musicianship, makes Mountain Song one of the most beloved annual gatherings in the Blue Ridge.

A Tradition That Lives On

The Blue Ridge Mountains are the spiritual home of bluegrass music, and its festivals are more than just concerts—they are cultural gatherings that celebrate tradition, innovation, and community. Whether it’s the historic Galax Old Fiddlers’ Convention, the sprawling MerleFest, or the family-style charm of Skunkfest, each festival offers a unique way to experience the sound and soul of Appalachia.

For discerning bluegrass fans, the Blue Ridge is more than a destination—it’s a pilgrimage.