By Mitch Rice
Get ready, music lovers from all corners of the world! It’s time for the annual bluegrass festivals. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly weekend, a massive music extravaganza, a traditional fiddler’s convention, or anything in between, you’ll find it all at the bluegrass festivals.
This year’s 2023 festival is shaping up to be even bigger and better, with a wealth of information already available. These events are held in many parts of the world, but they’re particularly popular in Europe and the Americas. The Bluegrass Festival Calendar for 2023 is out, and the options are endless. From different venues to varying lineups, schedules, facilities, admission fees, and camping and jamming options, the choices are many.
So, what are the top bluegrass festivals to attend in the US? This is a tricky question with no easy answer. There are several factors to consider, such as location, lineup, and personal preferences.
- What is your timetable?
Planning for a bluegrass festival requires taking several things into consideration, including your schedule, budget, and interests.
When it comes to your schedule, keep in mind that the festivals in the US are typically held from summer to fall. You have plenty of time to choose the best festival that suits your schedule.
- What is your financial situation?
Your financial situation is also an important factor to consider. A bluegrass festival, like any vacation, requires proper planning. Consider the cost of travel, event tickets, and any additional activities you wish to participate in. Don’t forget that you’re not alone in this, as many others will also be spending money to make the most of the festival.
- What kinds of activities are you interested in?
When it comes to activities, bluegrass festivals offer a wide range of options, such as concerts, music, parties, parades, competitions, camping, contests, dancing events, meals, jamming, singing, sports, speeches, races, and many more. Do your research to find out which festival has the activities you’re interested in, as not all venues offer the same experiences.
- Items and Supplies for the Festival
Finally, don’t forget to pack the right items and supplies for the festival. Think of it as a special vacation and bring the essentials, such as toiletries and first-aid supplies and of course, your favorite My Grass is Blue T-Shirt. Don’t forget to pack layers, as nighttime can get chilly. Comfortable sleeping arrangements, such as earplugs and eye masks, are also important for a good night’s sleep. With proper planning, you’ll have the ultimate bluegrass festival experience.”
A Few Awesome Bluegrass Festivals to Check Out
As I mentioned earlier, the calendar is out, and the number of festivals is staggering. We’ve already looked into a few factors worth considering. From my point of view, here are a few of the top bluegrass festivals to attend this year:
- Newport Folk Festival
This festival is planned for July 28–30, 2023, in Newport, Rhode Island.
This is an American folk-oriented music festival in Newport, Rhode Island, which was first held in July 1959. It is one of the few modern folk music festivals in America and continues to expand in this genre year by year. You can check it out on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/newportfolkfest) or on their website (http://www.newportfolk.org).
- Telluride Bluegrass Festival
This festival will take place from June 15–18, 2023, in Telluride, Colorado.
You can join the 11000 festivalgoers who will descend on Telluride, a historic mining town in the San Juan Mountains of SW Colorado, for four days of epic and adventurous music in the scenic Telluride box canyon.
The world’s most virtuosic acoustic instrumentalists, such as Sam Bush, Mumford & Sons, Robert Plant, Norah Jones, Brandi Carlile, Jason Mraz, Emmylou Harris, and many more, won’t miss. You can check them out on their website (https://bluegrass.com/telluride/) or their Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/planetbluegrass).
- Lowell Folk Fest
The event will kick off on July 28, 2023, and end three days later. The venue is Lowell, Massachusetts. The Lowell Folk Fest is popular for its finest traditional crafts, music, foodways, and more in downtown Lowell.
Over the years, this festival has proven to be the best in traditional folk music, ethnic foods, and ethnic foods. The festival is free and offers a package or sets of packages for all age groups, all of which happen within the heart of the scenic Lowell National Historic Park.
Make inquiries from their website (http://lowellfolkfestival.org) or on their Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/LowellFolkFestival/).
- High Sierra Music Festival
The event is slated for June 29th to July 2nd, 2023, at Quincy, California.
Strategically situated in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, this festival prides itself on its family-friendly atmosphere packed with highly talented artists who span all genres. They make your day for four days.
This festival is backed by a picturesque venue encompassed on each side by hilly and mountainous landscape and natural forests. Besides the music, you will enjoy yoga classes, children’s areas, audience participation parades, and more.
Reach High Sierra Music Festival at their official website, https://www.falconridgefolk.com, if you need to make any inquiries.
- Falcon Ridge Folk Festival
The event will take place July 29–31, 2023, at Hillsdale, New York.
This is one of the most famous and best-attended bluegrass festivals in the United States. It is a 3-day community event that features traditional folk music and dance at the foot of the Berkshires in east-central New York State.
The event showcases some of the most talented contemporary musicians, songwriters/singers, folk artists, and bands. It takes place in several stages and features family-oriented activities such as puppet shows and clowns.
For more information, check out their official website (https://www.falconridgefolk.com)
Wrapping It Up
It’s time to start planning for an unforgettable bluegrass festival experience. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best venue. However, by starting early and considering key factors such as time, finances, interests, and supplies, you can ensure that you have a fantastic time. Don’t wait, begin your bluegrass festival journey today!
Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.
