MerleFest 2026 in North Carolina features expanded late-night jams, a band competition, and performances by top bluegrass and folk artists.

MerleFest 2026, set for April 23–26 in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, has announced an expanded Late Night Jam hosted by Old Crow Medicine Show featuring Maggie Rose, The Creekers, DUG, Donna the Buffalo, Charlie Starr of Blackberry Smoke, AJ Lee & Blue Summit, and others. The festival, honoring Doc Watson’s legacy, includes the 11th Annual Band Competition, Acoustic Kids Showcases for musicians under 18, a silent auction for SAGE, and a 50/50 raffle. Additional performers include Alison Krauss & Union Station, Charles Wesley Godwin, Molly Tuttle, Sam Bush, and Peter Rowan & The Walls of Time Band. Multi-day tickets and packages are available.