Merlefest has announced its 2026 lineup, featuring Alison Krauss, Blackberry Smoke, Old Crow Medicine Show, and additional artists to be revealed in coming weeks.

The festival will return to Wilkes Community College in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, from April 23-26, 2026. Organizers confirmed the initial roster of performers during a press conference yesterday morning.

Alison Krauss, who has won 27 Grammy Awards throughout her career, will headline Saturday night. The bluegrass and country musician last performed at Merlefest in 2019.

Blackberry Smoke will make their debut appearance at the festival on Friday evening. The Southern rock band from Atlanta has released eight studio albums since forming in 2000.

Old Crow Medicine Show returns to Merlefest after a three-year absence. The string band will perform two sets during the weekend, including a workshop on traditional Appalachian music.

Festival director Chris Austin stated that ticket sales will begin December 1, with early-bird pricing available through January 15. Four-day passes start at $180, while single-day tickets range from $60 to $75.

The complete lineup will include over 75 acts performing across 13 stages. Additional artist announcements are expected in January and February 2026.

Merlefest, named after Doc Watson’s son Merle Watson, has operated annually since 1988. The event typically draws 75,000 attendees over its four-day run.

Stay tuned to Breaking And Entering for even more festival news and lineup announcements.