By CLTure
November 15, 2022
MerleFest, the Wilkesboro, North Carolina music festival founded in 1988 by guitarist Doc Watson (named after his late son Eddy Merle Watson) has announced their initial lineup for 2023. This year’s festival commemorates the 35 anniversary of the storied annual event, and honors the late Doc Watson’s 100th birthday.
Taking place April 27-30, 2023, the festival will be headlined by North Carolina’s own Avett Brothers and country star Maren Morris. Also joining the bill will be the music collective, Black Opry Revue, a group of Black artists blending genres in the country music spectrum.
In addition, MerleFest veterans Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas, Peter Rowan, Jim Lauderdale, Joe Smothers, Kruger Brothers, Donna the Buffalo, Scythian, and The Waybacks will join the 2023 bill.
To celebrate Doc Watson, the festival will pay tribute to the history of MerleFest through some unique collaborations honoring the festival’s founding folk icon. Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains at Wilkes Community College, the annual multi-day festival features 13 stages and draws thousands across the region featuring a bevy of local vendors, nature walks, kids showcases, music camps, and more.
Tickets to MerleFest 2023 are now available, offering general admission passes, as well as patio seating, reserved seating, camping, and parking.
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