Merlefest 2008: April 24-27

MerleFest is committed to producing a high quality diversified American roots based musical experience that attracts a broad audience and reunites guests, supporters and performers in an annual celebration of Americana music.

http://www.merlefest.org

The festival is held in a secure and substance-free setting that complements the experience and fosters an interest in a variety of musical forms representative of the repertoire of Doc and Merle Watson. Through the years, MerleFest has provided funds for its founding purpose, the Eddy Merle Watson Memorial Garden for the Senses; providing an interpretive, educational, artistic and cultural experience for visually impaired as well as sighted guests.

The festival is committed to the cultural experiences that are interwoven in the music’s foundations and progression. The acclaimed Outreach Program takes the festival experience to students in all twenty-one Wilks County K-12 schools and various other facilities in an effort to further educate and cultivate a cultural interest in roots music. MerleFest features arts and crafts vendors who represent the heritage of western North Carolina which enhances the cultural aspect of the festival.

The festival serves as an important economic catalyst for the surrounding community and has a significant impact each year. It is committed to promoting the work and efforts of Wilkes County non-profit community organizations and Wilkes Community College’s student organizations as well as the mission of Wilkes Community College. MerleFest directly contributes to Wilkes Community College’s scholarships, capital improvements, development, and many other needs of a growing institution of higher learning.

The presence of MerleFest on the World Wide Web provides an opportunity for deeper appreciation of the festival and serves as a forum for year-round communication with guests, volunteers and other festival participants.

In all facets of organization and operation, a caring staff continues to strive to present the best “Americana” music experience in the world.