When we look back on 2025 at the Earl Scruggs Center, one word rises to the top: together. It was a year marked by meaningful milestones, made possible by the dedication of our staff, Board, and volunteers—and by the generosity and encouragement of friends like you.
This year, we took a truly historic step with the announcement of the acquisition of the Earl Scruggs Homeplace. Preserving Earl’s story in the place where it began is a responsibility we take to heart. Restoration work is now underway at the home in Flint Hill, guided by preservation experts and rooted in deep respect for Earl’s legacy and the community that shaped him.
Education and outreach continued to be at the center of our work. More than 2,750 children were impacted through field trips, summer instrument camps, and our Bluegrass Ambassadors program. This year, the program expanded into Rutherford and Polk Counties, reaching 750 students and celebrating regional legends like Snuffy Jenkins and Nina Simone—connecting young people to the music and stories of their own communities.
Music was everywhere in 2025. We hosted workshops for youth and adults, welcomed 40 campers to our first-ever Earl Experience Banjo Camp, and presented five unforgettable performances through the Center Stage Concert Series. Community concerts, Pickin’ on the Square, and the Remembering Earl After Party shined a spotlight on local musicians throughout the year.
Our signature events brought us together in powerful ways. The Remembering Earl Concert featured the Del McCoury Band with Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley, and the Earl Scruggs Music Festival welcomed an average of 7,000 attendees each day. We were honored when the festival was named 2025 Event of the Year by the International Bluegrass Music Association.
Inside the museum, we debuted two special exhibits and made important progress toward new interactive galleries set to open in early 2026.
Thank you for walking alongside us this year. We are deeply grateful for your support—and excited for all that lies ahead.