MerleFest concludes 2024 festival

WILKESBORO — MerleFest, presented by Window World, concluded its annual spring homecoming this weekend with a larger-than-life ‘Traditional Plus’ celebration, drawing both seasoned attendees and newcomers to the campus of Wilkes Community College in Wilkesboro, NC. The four-day gathering––inspired by the vision of festival founder and North Carolina native Doc Watson––is the biggest economic driver of scholarships, capital projects, and educational needs within the greater community. Since its inaugural event in 1988, MerleFest has continued to demonstrate a commitment to supporting the residents of Wilkes County, while showcasing outstanding talent from its home state and beyond. This year’s festival was no different, with nearly one hundred acts spanning diverse styles and genres performing across 12 stages from Thursday through Sunday.

Festival director Wes Whitson shared, “MerleFest 2024 was a testament to the enduring spirit of community and music. The unwavering support from our artists, fans, staff, volunteers, and sponsors not only creates unforgettable moments but also fuels the educational mission of Wilkes Community College. The beautiful weather this weekend served as a perfect backdrop to the magic unfolding on stage, adding an extra layer of joy to our festivities. We were thrilled to see an overwhelming turnout on Thursday evening, a resounding affirmation that MerleFest continues to grow stronger with each passing year.”