MerleFest

Credit cards accepted

Phone charging station

Parking

First aid station

Shuttle service

Public Wi-Fi

Grocery store

Water station

Info desk

Wheelchair access

Toilets

Other

Country

Hip Hop

Electronic

Rock

Jazz

Blues

Folk & Traditional

Get ready to tap your feet and strum along at MerleFest 2026! This legendary festival, born from Doc Watson's heartfelt tribute to his son, has blossomed into America's largest roots music celebration. Every spring, eighty thousand kindred spirits gather on the welcoming campus of Wilkes Community College, creating a vibrant tapestry of music, community, and unforgettable moments. MerleFest is where legends and rising stars align, sharing their talents in surprising collaborations that span bluegrass, folk, and Americana genres. Imagine strolling through the grounds, the sweet melodies of banjos and guitars filling the air, surrounded by fellow music lovers. Beyond the incredible performances, MerleFest offers a friendly and inclusive atmosphere, perfect for families and friends to make lasting memories. So pack your bags, grab your dancing shoes, and prepare for an experience that will warm your heart and ignite your soul. From seasoned musicians to enthusiastic fans, MerleFest 2026 promises a weekend of pure musical joy that you won't want to miss! Be sure to book your tickets and accommodations early to secure your spot at this premier roots music festival.

Field festival

Family-friendly

Eco-friendly

Camping

Workshops

Culture/Arts

Chill zone

MerleFest 2026

Huge

Wilkes Community College

The Knackered Ramblers

Presley Barker

Contemporary Country

The InterACTive Theatre of Jef

Tony Williamson

Bluegrass

Banknotes

Contemporary Hip Hop

Trap

Steep Canyon Rangers

Dubstep

T. Michael Coleman

Folk Rock

Alison Krauss & Union Station featuring Jerry Douglas

The Jerry Douglas Band

Americana/Alt Country

Jeff Little

Dom Flemons & The Traveling Wildfires

Charles Welch

Contemporary Blues

Old Crow Medicine Show

Carol Rifkin

Scythian

Celtic

Krüger Brothers

Jim Lauderdale

Charles Wesley Godwin

Blues Rock

Roy Book Binder

Classic Blues

Jake Shimabukuro

Dance

Mainstream Pop

Peter Rowan & The Walls of Time Band

Mitch Greenhill

Trey Hensley

Molly Tuttle

Wayne Henderson

Laura Boosinger

Pete Wernick

Sam Bush

Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper

Hogslop String Band

The Local Boys

Joe Smothers

Jack Lawrence

Robert Randolph & The Family Band

Funk

Sister Sadie

Blackberry Smoke

Ketch Secor

Singer/Songwriter

Amelia Day

Indie Pop

Smooth Jazz

Donna the Buffalo

Jam Band

Ny Roots

The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band

Melissa Carper

Andy May

The Waybacks

Mark Bumgarner

The Creekers

Amenities

Get ready for MerleFest 2026