Article Contributed by Rainwater Poster Co.
Published on 2026-04-01
Each October, as the Appalachian highlands begin to glow with the deep reds, oranges, and golds of peak fall foliage, the town of Big Stone Gap, Virginia transforms into a gathering place for bluegrass lovers from across the country. In 2026, that tradition continues in a meaningful way as Blue Highway Fest returns October 8-11 with a lineup that honors both the roots of the music and the community that has grown around it.
Named the 2023 IBMA Industry Event of the Year, the festival has quickly established itself as one of the premier roots music events in the Southeast. This year, organizers are leaning even deeper into that identity, bringing the focus squarely back to traditional bluegrass while maintaining the spirit of collaboration and celebration that defines the weekend.
The first round of artists reflects that commitment, with a lineup led by some of the most celebrated names in the genre, including Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, Rhonda Vincent & the Rage, The Grascals, and The Cleverlys. Hosting the weekend once again is Blue Highway, whose presence continues to anchor the festival both musically and culturally.
“This year we are listening to our fans and getting back to four full days of bluegrass, roots and Americana music with the major focus on bluegrass,” says Wayne Taylor of Blue Highway.
The 2026 edition will open on Thursday evening, October 8, with an intimate songwriter’s night on the downtown 3rd Street stage. With performers still to be announced, the event will spotlight the craft of songwriting while also serving as a heartfelt tribute to the late Ronnie Bowman. The beloved singer, songwriter, and multiple IBMA Male Vocalist of the Year was scheduled to perform at this year’s festival before his passing on March 22, 2026.
“He was a close friend of the band’s, and he filled in with Blue Highway when Wayne was ill years ago,” says Tim Stafford. “We will, of course, be paying tribute to Ronnie’s legacy at this year’s event,” adds Taylor.
Beyond the initial artist announcements, organizers promise that more surprises are on the way. “We kinda specialize in reunion shows,” Stafford notes, “and there will be a doozy on Friday this year, not to give away too much…”
“We have a bluegrass buffet of music planned for the 2026 Blue Highway Fest,” says talent buyer Laura Mainer. “Your ears will feast on some festival favorites, add a dash of new-to-us artists, and sprinkle on some surprises. It's going to be a remarkable weekend!”
Set in the heart of Southwest Virginia, the festival offers more than just music. October in Big Stone Gap brings some of the most stunning scenery in the region, making the weekend as much about place as it is about sound. Whether arriving from nearby towns or traveling across the country, fans can expect a full sensory experience rooted in tradition, community, and the enduring spirit of bluegrass.
“Come be with us in an extremely beautiful part of our great country for some of the best music on the planet,” Taylor says in closing.
Festival tickets, along with camping and RV parking options, go on sale April 15 at bluehighwayfest.com. Additional performers, daily schedules, and more details will be announced in the coming months.
About Blue Highway Fest
Blue Highway Fest is an annual bluegrass music festival held in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, hosted by the town of Big Stone Gap and the band Blue Highway. The festival was named the 2023 IBMA Industry Event of the Year and has become one of the premier roots music events in the Southeast. Blue Highway Fest is presented in partnership with the town of Big Stone Gap, Virginia is for Music Lovers, Friends of Southwest Virginia, The Slemp Foundation, and The Crooked Road.
