Serving Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and other towns of the North Carolina High Country | Founded 05-05-05

February 1, 2007 issue

Appalachian Roots Revival Comes to Boone April 21

Festival Sports Top-Notch Musical Acts, Family Fun

Story by David Brewer

This spring, the High Country will be home to yet another fantastic musical event as the inaugural Appalachian Roots Revival takes over the High Country Fairgrounds on Saturday, April 21.

Deemed a celebration of Americana music and art, the single-day festival will feature a stellar lineup of musical acts including headliners The Avett Brothers (in their only North Carolina appearance before June), Larry & Jenny Keel with Steve “Big Daddy” McMurray, the everybodyfields, the Wrinkle Neck Mules and Black Cash & The Bad Trips, as well as local bands Possum Jenkins and The Lost Ridge Band.

The event will last from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Appalachian Roots Revival promoter Walter Reiss of All Access Event Management stated that during 2006, he and company co-founder Bob Robertson began looking for a way to translate their success with events such as the Lake Eden Arts Festival and Smilefest into an event specifically intended for the High Country.

“We thought putting together a family event in the Boone area would work well,” said Reiss.

In addition to the musical offerings, festivalgoers can participate in themed competitions and the public pickin’ space, as well as partake of delicious food, works by talented crafters, nonprofit info booths and an art exposition. 

Reiss said that he hopes for the event to host a classic car demonstration and a possible chili cook-off.

Tickets for the event will be $25 in advance and $35 at the gate. Children 12 and under can enter free with a paying adult. The event is sponsored by The Mountain Times. For more info, click to www.allaccessem.com or www.myspace.com/appalachianrootsfestival.