Joanne Williams
Editor
(Courtesy photo – Bluegrass legend and Country Hall of Famer Del McCoury is the shining star at this year’s Charlotte Bluegrass Festival. He brings along sons Rob and Ronnie as well.)
It’s been 54 years, but who is counting? Maybe the folks who missed the fact that the Charlotte Bluegrass has been a staple on the nationwide music circuit.
“My dad took me to the festival when I was 9 years old,” said Wes Pettinger, festival promoter. Since then, Pettinger has been emersed in a grassroots music movement that has ebbed and flowed since its humble roots.
Last year’s festival was a highlight for Pettinger, with superstar Billy Strings taking the Eaton County Fairgrounds spotlight. There are still whispers that he might sneak back this year.
But what music lovers do know is that a Bluegrass, multi-award-winning legends, and members of his family will be commanding the stage.
The Del McCoury Band is the spotlight act among more than 10 others throughout the June 25-27 event.
Pettinger started with the festival in 2013 with 90-days before the start of the music. There were up and down years, he said, and then COVID, and then a tornado in 2021. But, since then, with Bluegrass more recognized on the popular charts thanks to performers such as Strings, who was born in Lansing and the movie “O Brother, Where Art Thou?”.
Not only will Del McCoury, 87, be featured, but his sons, Rob and Ronnie will be joining him, and performing with their band, The Traveling McCourys.
An up and comer on the schedule is Gavin Conley and the Michigan Bluegrass Band, who will perform two sets. For a full festival schedule, visit charlottebluegrassfestival.com
Most of the performers are there for the full weekend and follow each other’s sets. At night, campsites ring with music.
More than 300 campers could be there, Pettinger said. Folks can claim spots even before the festival. The Fairgrounds camping is a hidden gem in the city, and features restrooms and showers. The cost of the concert is one of the lowest around. There are day and weekend packages. Parking is free and gates open at 8 a.m.
Pettinger has some tips for first-time attendees:
*You can bring your own cooler stocked with your beverage of choice.
*No glass in the concrete areas of the venue.
*Dogs are welcome, on a leash, and are restricted in some areas.
*Bring your own lawn chairs but be aware of high-backs blocking other’s views.
*Golf carts are allowed.
*Children 16 and under are admitted free with adult paid entry.
*There are afternoon music classes offered by the performers.
*There will be vendors on site, and the pass allows re-entry.
*Be prepared for the weather, rain, shine or heat.
Last year, more than 4,000 people found their way to the event. Pettinger expects more. Each performer lists Charlotte, Michigan, in their tour schedule. For information, call the festival office at 269-832-5519.
