2026 Remembering Earl: A Fundraiser for the Earl Scruggs Center

Date: Saturday, April 18, 2026
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Concert Venue: Crest High School Auditorium (800 Old Boiling Springs Rd, Shelby, NC 28152)
Encore After Party Venue: Earl Scruggs Center (103 S. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC 28150)
The Earl Scruggs Center is thrilled to present a high-energy, star-studded benefit concert honoring the life, legacy, and music of Earl Scruggs. Join us for an unforgettable night of bluegrass as Rhonda Vincent & The Rage headline the 2026 Remembering Earl concert—bringing powerhouse performances, world-class musicianship, and heartfelt tradition to the stage.
This special evening unites legendary artists and beloved rising stars for a joyful celebration of bluegrass excellence, community, and Earl’s lasting influence on American music.
After the final notes ring out, the celebration continues with an Encore After Party for VIP ticketholders at the Earl Scruggs Center—where stories are shared, music lives on, and the night doesn’t end when the curtain closes.
To purchase tickets, click here.
Featured Artists
Headliner: Rhonda Vincent & The Rage
Widely known as the “Queen of Bluegrass,” Rhonda Vincent is a multi-GRAMMY® Award winner and one of the most awarded artists in bluegrass history. Backed by her world-class band, The Rage, Rhonda delivers high-energy performances marked by stunning vocals, instrumental virtuosity, and deep respect for bluegrass roots. Her influence spans generations, making her a perfect headliner for this tribute to Earl Scruggs.
Supporting Act: Darin & Brooke Aldridge
North Carolina natives Darin & Brooke Aldridge are celebrated for their rich harmonies, heartfelt songwriting, and polished sound that bridges classic bluegrass and modern acoustic music. Multi-award winners and Grand Ole Opry favorites, the duo brings authenticity, warmth, and emotional depth to every performance—an ideal complement to this special evening.
VIP Packages
Take your Remembering Earl experience to the next level with a limited VIP Package, designed for our most dedicated fans and supporters.
VIP Package Includes:
- Premium reserved seating for the concert
- Admission to the exclusive Encore After Party at the Earl Scruggs Center
VIP packages are extremely limited and expected to sell quickly. Once purchased, tickets will be emailed directly to you. VIP wristbands will be available for pickup at the box office day of the event. Wristbands will be needed for entrance to the Encore After Party.
Tickets
General Admission: $47 ($53.25 w/ fees)
Enjoy an unforgettable evening of bluegrass featuring world-class performers in a vibrant concert setting.
VIP Package: $137 ($147.75 w/ fees)
Includes premium seating, exclusive access to the Encore After Party at the Earl Scruggs Center, and special perks designed to make your Remembering Earl experience truly memorable.
To purchase tickets, click here.
Please note: A limited number of VIP packages are available.
Event Information & Assistance
For general information about the event or ticketing assistance, please contact:
The Earl Scruggs Center
📞 704-487-6233
📍 103 South Lafayette Street, Shelby, NC
📧 [email protected]
For information about becoming a member or additional event details, contact Guest Services during regular operating hours:
Tuesday – Saturday | 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Support the Earl Scruggs Center
Proceeds from the Remembering Earl benefit concert support the Earl Scruggs Center’s mission to celebrate and preserve the music, history, and cultural traditions of the region. Your attendance helps ensure that Earl’s legacy continues to inspire future generations.
We look forward to welcoming you for a truly special night of music and remembrance.
The Earl Scruggs Center opened January 2014 and has welcomed visitors from all 50 states and 18 countries. The Center engages with and serves guests from the community and world as a cultural destination, community gathering place and educational resource. The Center provides opportunities for all to engage with and learn about the life and legacy of legendary five-string banjo master Earl Scruggs and the unique and engaging music, history and cultural traditions of the community and region where he was born and raised.
The Earl Scruggs Center and the Don Gibson Theatre are projects of Destination Cleveland County, Inc., a citizen-driven award winning unique public/private partnership, a non-profit 501©3.
