If you’re looking for a laid-back fall festival where you can enjoy great music without the hassle of crowded parking lots and long walks, the Carolina Bible Camp Bluegrass Festival in Mocksville may be just what you’re looking for.
Now in its 14th year, the festival returns on Saturday, September 12, bringing a full day of bluegrass music, family activities, and special performances to the scenic 68-acre campus of Carolina Bible Camp. Festival organizer Greg Brewer describes it as “the easiest festival you’ll ever attend.”
“Bring your own chair, pick a shady location near the Front Porch Stage, and enjoy the best of bluegrass for an afternoon,” Brewer said.
The festival’s headliner is Grammy Award-winning fiddler Michael Cleveland and his band, Flamekeeper. Cleveland, widely regarded as one of the most talented musicians in bluegrass, will take the stage from 4:00 to 5:15 p.m. His performance will be followed by the festival’s traditional Parade of Kids, the announcement of the 2027 lineup, and a closing jam session featuring “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.”
A Full Day of Music
Gates open at 10:00 a.m., with opening ceremonies beginning at 10:45 a.m. The music starts at 11:00 a.m. and continues throughout the day.
The lineup includes:
- 11:00–11:30 a.m. – Muppet artist Lucas Ross presents his “Banjo Farm” puppet show. Known as Kermit the Frog’s “banjo advisor” and as the Community Outreach and Promotion Director for the American Banjo Museum, Ross combines music, puppetry, and storytelling in a performance designed for all ages.
- 11:45 a.m.–12:30 p.m. – Traditional bluegrass band Blue Diggity, from Wheeling, West Virginia, performs a mix of original songs and classics.
- 12:45–1:45 p.m. – Eighteen-year-old banjo prodigy Ettore Buzzini and his band bring their energetic blend of progressive bluegrass to the stage.
- 2:00–2:45 p.m. – Festival favorites The Biscuit Eaters return for their third consecutive appearance, fresh off major wins at the Galax Fiddlers’ Convention.
- 3:00–3:45 p.m. – Lucas Ross returns with more banjo tunes, stories, and a special audience singalong of “The Rainbow Connection.”
- 4:00–5:30 p.m. – Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper close out the festival.
One lucky attendee will also take home a fiddle signed by Michael Cleveland as part of WAME Radio’s free fiddle giveaway.
Fun for the Whole Family
The Carolina Bible Camp Bluegrass Festival is designed to be more than just a concert. Families will find plenty to keep children entertained throughout the day, including:
- Music Time with Miss Laura
- Ga-Ga Ball demonstrations
- Nature walks
- “When I Grow Up, I Want to Be…” featuring North Carolina State Highway Patrol motorcycle trooper Brady White
- Free banjo crafts at the kids’ activities tent
Children’s author Karen Handy will also be on hand with Vegas, the gentle 120-pound Great Dane featured in her Vegas, One Lucky Dog book series. Kids will have the chance to hear stories and meet Vegas in person.
Comfortable, Convenient, and Affordable
Set among shady trees on a beautiful country campus, the festival offers large audience tents and air-conditioned dining areas to help guests stay cool and comfortable throughout the day. General admission seating is available under the tents, and some campsites are also available on the property.
Advance tickets are just $20, and children 12 and under are admitted free with a paying adult.
Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and settle in for a relaxing day of music and family fun.
The festival will be held rain or shine.
For tickets, camping information, and the complete schedule, visit www.cbcbluegrass.com.
