The Mountaineer

March 1, 2024

It’s not too early to plan for a great fall music festival, especially one with these bands on tap.

The Haywood County Arts Council has announced the highly anticipated lineup for the Smoky Mountain Bluegrass Festival happening Saturday, Oct. 12, at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds. Balsam Range will headline the festival, with Appalachian Road Show, Nu-Blu and more rounding out the acts.

“We are thrilled to welcome back a crowd favorite, our own Balsam Range,” said Tonya Harwood, arts council executive director. “Fresh off the release of their latest album, ‘Kinetic Tone,’ Balsam Range’s return to our stage is eagerly anticipated.”

Here’s the line-up:

• Kicking off the show is the sensational Brew Davis, a rising star in the local music industry known for his unique “Brewgrass” sound.

• Returning to the festival this year are the talented Blue Ridge Girls, a remarkable trio with a blend of old-time, bluegrass and country songs.

• Taking the stage next is the bluegrass/Americana/country band Nu-Blu, whose track record includes four top 10 Billboard albums. Known for their ability to seamlessly transition between upbeat, blazing-fingered pick work and heartfelt, soul-stirring ballads.

• Appalachian Road Show is back by popular demand. Led by Grammy-nominated banjoist Barry Abernathy and Grammy-winning fiddler Jim Van Cleave, this group celebrates and sheds light on the rich culture and lifestyle of Appalachian music.

The Smoky Mountain Bluegrass Festival not only includes award-winning bluegrass bands, but also vendors, raffles, artist demos and artwork, child and adult playgrounds, plus local drinks and food.

The festival is accepting applications for local art/food vendors now.