One of the best little music festivals ‘n the country is the Doc and Rosa Lee Watson MusicFest ‘n Sugar Grove. Held on the grounds of the historic Cove Creek High School in western Watauga County, this two-day festival features the best in local, regional and national performers from the worlds of bluegrass, country, old-time and folk music.
This year’s MusicFest will be held on Friday and Saturday, July 11 and 12, with two outdoor stages plus an inside “Pickin’ Parlor” stage in the Cove Creek School.
Performers include Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, Willie Watson, the Sons of Bluegrass, Chatham County Line, the Cockman Family, Mark Schimick’s Sassagrass Reunion, Charles Welch, the Lost Ridge Band, Strictly Strings, Carolina Crossing, the ETSU Pride Band, Upright and Breathing, Andy Ferrell and Oncoming Train, the New River Boys, the Snyder Family Band, and the White Top Mountain Band.
The festival will feature one-of-a-kind special musical events such as the songwriters showcase, open jams and Charles Welch’s Tribute to Doc Watson (Saturday night).
The festival also features a wide array of food and craft vendors, a playground for children, and a chance to visit the Doc and Merle Watson Folk Arts Museum inside the Cove Creek High School. The museum features photos, musical instruments and even Grammy Awards from Doc Watson’s storied career.
Two-day reserved seating tickets are $55. Friday tickets are $20 and Saturday tickets are $25.
For more information, visit http://musicfestnsugargrove.org/ or call (828) 297-2200.
