Founded in 1988 in memory of Eddy Merle Watson, son of American music legend Doc Watson, as a fundraiser for Wilkes Community College and to celebrate "traditional plus" music, MerleFest is considered one of the premier music festivals in the country.
Held on the campus of Wilkes Community College in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, MerleFest brings together a unique mix of music based on the traditional, roots-oriented sounds of the Appalachian region (including bluegrass and old-time music) and has slowly expanded over the years to include Americana, country, blues, rock, and various other musical styles.
The festival hosts numerous artists performing on 13 stages during the course of the four-day event. Headliners and artists for the 2021 MerleFest include LeAnn Rimes, Sam Bush Band, Melissa Etheridge, Mavis Staples, Jim Lauderdale, Tedeschi Trucks Band, JOHNNYSWIM, The Milk Carton Kids, Shovels & Rope, We Banjo 3, and many more!
Tickets go on sale June 10, 2021 and can be purchased here.