By Grant Golden  April 21, 2023 Celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, Wilkesboro’s MerleFest is one of the longest running, and most attended roots music festivals in the country. Founded in 1988 in memory of Merle Watson, the son of legendary bluegrass guitarist Doc Watson, MerleFest is ingrained into Wilkesboro’s culture, with an annual economic … Continue reading MerleFest celebrates its 35th anniversary and the 100th birthday of Doc Watson