Annual Music Tradition: MerleFest Brings Americana Music Fans Together

During a time when more and more music festivals are popping up all across the world, there is one annual music festival that the people of Wilkesboro North Carolina hold near and dear to their heart. If you happen to be passing through this part of North Carolina during the latter part of April, chances are pretty good that MerleFest will be taking place at the Wilkes Community College.

Merlefest is a four day Americana music festival like no other, hosted by legendary musician Doc Watson. This incredible music festival pays tribute to the best of blues, folk, bluegrass, acoustic, and old time music styles, attracting well over 85,000 people each year. MerleFest, founded in 1988, unites a variety of music enthusiasts and creates a special bond amongst performers and fans, something that many heavily commercialized festivals have a difficult time doing.

Over the years there have been many well known performers who have taken the stage at MerleFest such as Ricky Skaggs, Elvis Costello, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Dolly Parton, John Prine, Allison Krauss, and Grateful Dead's Bob Weir. Mixed between all the more recognizable names that are scheduled during the festival are many not so recognizable names in Americana music. This has always been something very unique to MerleFest, which offers a glimpse at many outstanding musicians and performers many people may not have ever known existed.

One of the best features of MerleFest is its wide variety of music stages. Americana music in general contains a large mix of genres. I think in order to really appreciate the full spectrum of this music as a whole, it's important to break it down a bit to see and hear what each individual performer has to offer in their particular category of music. MerleFest offers the best of performers on over 12 different stages, from open jam stages, country western stages, classic old time music stages, to the most traditional bluegrass stages.

While all the incredible performances are taking place and making history, there are also a variety of contests and activities that take place at the festival. Those who have music in their heart and soul will really be able to appreciate the unique musical gatherings that take place at MerleFest. Guitar, mandolin, and banjo contests all showcase amazing talents from musicians of all kinds. There is even a Jam Camp, open to anyone, offering musical guidance and instruction to those interested. A silent auction and raffle also takes place at MerleFest, bringing unique opportunities to own special items such as musical instruments.

The 2008 MerleFest, taking place April 24 through April 27th, is sure to be a special one, and anyone who is considering attending this special music event is strongly encouraged to visit the official MerleFest website. You'll find full performance schedules, contest and activity information, directions, and lodging details all at the site. You can also join the official MerleFest mailing list at the site to stay informed of important festival details.