By: Stephanie Barrett
This Labor Day weekend, be part of a milestone celebration as the Earl Scruggs Music Festival returns for its fifth year, September 4–6, at Tryon International in Mill Spring, North Carolina.
In just five years, the festival has become one of the Southeast's premier destinations for bluegrass, Americana, and roots music, bringing together world-class artists, passionate fans, and a shared appreciation for the musical legacy of Earl Scruggs. The 2026 festival promises to be its biggest yet, featuring an exciting new festival layout, including a brand-new stage that will offer even more opportunities to experience incredible live performances throughout the weekend.
This year's lineup is packed with legendary performers and fan favorites, including The Avett Brothers, Greensky Bluegrass, The Del McCoury Band, Béla Fleck: My Bluegrass Heart, The Earls of Leicester with Jerry Douglas, Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, Alison Brown Quintet, Della Mae, East Nash Grass, Lindsay Lou, Lonesome River Band with Telegrass, Darin & Brooke Aldridge, and many more. From unforgettable headlining performances to collaborative sets, workshops, and late-night jams, every day offers something new to discover.
While the music takes center stage at the festival, the story of how it all began is just a short drive away.
Located in historic downtown Shelby, the Earl Scruggs Center celebrates the life and legacy of the man whose innovative three-finger banjo style transformed American music forever. Interactive exhibits, rare artifacts, hands-on experiences, and engaging storytelling invite visitors to explore Earl's journey from Cleveland County to the world stage and discover the cultural traditions that continue to inspire musicians today.
For festivalgoers, a visit to the Earl Scruggs Center is the perfect way to deepen your appreciation for the music you'll hear throughout the weekend. Stand where Earl's story began, learn about the community that shaped his groundbreaking sound, and connect with the rich history behind bluegrass music.
Make It a Bluegrass Weekend
Don't just come for the festival—make it a weekend to remember.
While you're in the area:
- Explore the Earl Scruggs Center and experience Earl's remarkable story.
- Enjoy the charm of historic downtown Shelby, with its local restaurants, breweries, and unique shops.
- Discover why Cleveland County is known as the place where bluegrass history comes alive.
- Celebrate the fifth Earl Scruggs Music Festival and be among the first to experience the festival's exciting new stage and expanded entertainment.
Whether you're a returning festival fan or planning your first visit, there's never been a better time to experience everything the Earl Scruggs Music Festival has to offer. From the energy of live performances to the history that inspired a musical revolution, Labor Day weekend is your chance to celebrate the music, the people, and the legacy of Earl Scruggs.
Start planning your trip today. Spend your days enjoying incredible live music at the Earl Scruggs Music Festival, then make time to visit the Earl Scruggs Center to discover the story behind the legend. Together, they create an unforgettable experience that celebrates the past, present, and future of bluegrass music.
We look forward to welcoming you to Cleveland County for an unforgettable Labor Day weekend!