Article Contributed by Gratefulweb
Published on 2026-06-08
The 51st annual Father’s Day Bluegrass Festival returns to the Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley, CA, from Thursday, June 18 through Sunday, June 21, 2026, for four days of world-class bluegrass, old-time, and roots music presented by the California Bluegrass Association.
Known as “the best jamming west of the Rockies,” the family-friendly festival features nationally acclaimed performers, emerging regional artists, workshops, youth programs, square dancing, camping, and late-night jam sessions beneath the towering pines of the Sierra Nevada foothills.
When: 10 a.m. Thursday, June 18 through Sunday, June 21, 2026
Where: Nevada County Fairgrounds, 11228 McCourtney Rd., Grass Valley, CA 95949
Festival headliners include Bluegrass Cardinals, Sam Grisman Project, The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, Bronwyn Keith-Hynes, Missy Raines & Allegheny, Bruce Molsky & Darol Anger, The Price Sisters, California Bluegrass Reunion, Broken Compass Bluegrass, and Caleb & Reeb and the Cali Cutups.
The festival will feature three stages: the Main Stage, Vern’s Stage, and the Pioneer Stage. Vern’s Stage will showcase rising and established West Coast talent, while the Pioneer Stage will feature additional performances, youth showcases, and special presentations.
Vern’s Stage artists include Alan Bond & Skedaddle, Cantara Loop, The Crooked Jades, Evie Ladin Band, The Far Out Johnnies, Frog Face, Grass Valley Stringband, Honey Buckets, Lilies of the West, Long Forgotten, Mission Blue, The New Acoustic Collective, Redwood Flat, The Rounder Circle, Significant Otter, Silver City, and The Stoney Mountain Ramblers.
A special Juneteenth celebration on Friday will feature a presentation and performance from the Black Banjo Project, exploring the banjo’s African roots and Black musical traditions.
Scott Gates will serve as Artist in Residence, joining headliner bands throughout the weekend while leading workshops and making special appearances.
Family and youth programs include the Kids on Bluegrass youth showcase, the CBA Youth Academy for ages 8–16, the KidFest activity area, free workshops, square dances, and late-night campground jams.
Onsite camping is included with full festival passes, with limited RV hookups available. The weekend will also feature community jamming throughout the fairgrounds, along with local lodging options in Grass Valley and Nevada City.
Advance Ticket Information:
Full four-day passes are $240 for adults ages 18–64, $225 for seniors ages 65 and older, and $70 for teens ages 13–17. Prices will increase at the box office. Single-day passes range from $25 to $85. Kids 12 and under are free. Discounts are available for California Bluegrass Association members, and Pinetree Partner passes with premium amenities are also available.
About the California Bluegrass Association:
The nonprofit California Bluegrass Association, founded in 1975, encourages, fosters, and cultivates the preservation, appreciation, understanding, enjoyment, support, and performance of bluegrass, old-time, gospel, and traditional instrumental and vocal music of the United States. The organization and festival are operated by volunteers dedicated to presenting premier acoustic music in a community-based, family-friendly setting.
More information: California Bluegrass Association
