Article Contributed by Gratefulweb
Published on 2026-06-18
Artist Playshops are a High Sierra tradition and a fan favorite. These unique collaborations, tributes, and special sets happen once, happen live, and happen only at High Sierra.
“Artist playshops are at the heart of what makes High Sierra special,” says High Sierra Music Festival Producer Dave Margulies. “They’re where musicians get to stretch creatively, collaborate with artists they may never otherwise share a stage with, and pay tribute to the music and musicians that inspired them. Many of these performances happen once and never happen again.”
The 34th Annual High Sierra Music Festival takes place July 2–5, 2026, at its new home at the Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley, California.
Artist Playshops at High Sierra are unique, one-of-a-kind performances that fans and musicians always look forward to. Whether it’s a collaboration, a tribute set celebrating a legendary musician, or a theme-based set, High Sierra Playshops offer fans an opportunity to see musicians in an uncommon setting, allowing artists to shine some light on an artistic side that is not often seen by the public.
Artist Playshops have become an integral and memorable part of the High Sierra experience.
Highlights from this year’s Playshops include:
The Mothership Lands – A P-Funk tribute by The Rumble featuring RonKat Spearman
Love’s in Need of Love Today – A Stevie Wonder tribute by The Heeters and Friends
Good Vibrations – Anna Moss & Friends celebrate the music of The Beach Boys
The Royal Scam – Steely Dead recreates Steely Dan’s classic album from beginning to end on its 50th anniversary
Lebo’s 50 Years in the Rearview – One of High Sierra’s most anticipated annual traditions
Workingman’s Dead – Songs, stories, and improvisation featuring photographer Jay Blakesberg and Steve Poltz
Guitarmageddon – A tribute to the guitar heroes of the Bay Area scene
Additional Playshops explore bluegrass history, Miles Davis’ electric era, Dylan LeBlanc’s acclaimed album Cautionary Tale, and several interactive participation Playshops where attendees can bring instruments and join in.
All Playshops take place in the High Sierra Music Hall unless otherwise noted.
The 2026 festival also marks a major new chapter for High Sierra as it moves to the Nevada County Fairgrounds after 25 festivals at the Plumas County Fairgrounds in Quincy.
“After 25 unforgettable years at the Plumas County Fairgrounds, we have made the heartfelt decision to relocate the High Sierra Music Festival to the Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley, July 2–5, 2026,” Margulies said when announcing the move.
“Since 1998, Quincy has been our home, our backdrop, and the setting for countless unforgettable moments. Over 25 festivals, we’ve shared music, laughter, and community that will remain with us always. The warmth and support of Quincy and Plumas County have shaped High Sierra’s identity and helped it to grow into the beloved gathering it is today. For this, we are profoundly and forever grateful.”
The move to Grass Valley is designed to provide greater accessibility, more lodging options, improved infrastructure, and a sustainable path forward for the independent festival.
Known as “California’s Most Beautiful Fairgrounds,” the Nevada County Fairgrounds spans nearly 90 acres of towering pines, shaded campgrounds, and year-round RV parks.
Festivalgoers can look forward to approximately 1,000 hotel rooms and more than 300 Airbnbs within 10 miles, along with on-site parking and camping, expanded RV hookups, additional shaded camping areas, and early-entry VIP options.
The new location also offers convenient access from three major airports: approximately two hours from San Francisco International Airport, one hour and 15 minutes from Sacramento International Airport, and just over one hour from Reno-Tahoe International Airport.
Returning High Sierra traditions include the Family Village, Artist Playshops, yoga, daily parades, Silent Disco, Dr. Bronner’s Foam Bath, Sunrise Kickball, and Rockin’ Nannies Childcare. The 2026 festival will also feature an additional Family/Community Stage and larger venues for Late-Night and Troubadour Sessions.
“High Sierra’s soul remains unchanged,” Margulies said. “It’s still an intimate gathering of fewer than 7,500 attendees. While the spotlight is always on the music, it’s equally on the incredible community of people and the long-standing camps that create the container for High Sierra’s magic. Everyone involved—artists, crew, vendors, volunteers, and fans—all bring the absolute best of themselves. That’s the High Sierra way, and why the festival continues to shine every July 4th weekend for more than 30 years.”
Event Details
What: The 34th Annual High Sierra Music Festival
Where: Nevada County Fairgrounds, 11228 McCourtney Road, Grass Valley, CA 95949
When: July 2–5, 2026
Tickets: Four-day passes and FestivALL VIP packages, including hotel and RV options, are available at www.highsierramusic.com
