bluegrass from the forest This Weekend in Shelton!
By Rachel Hansen
Hosted by the Kristmas Town Kiwanis since 2004, Bluegrass From The Forest is returning to Shelton on Jul 12-14, 2024 for its 19th year. Evolving as an outdoor weekend family-friendly festival for the last four years (formerly indoors in the local auditorium), Bluegrass from the Forest hosts camping (just $15/night), national bluegrass bands, music workshops for all ages, and a country dance Saturday night. With a packed schedule and plenty of camping on site, many bluegrass fans head to the Olympic Peninsula for the entire weekend.
Crying Uncle performs Friday and Saturday at Bluegrass from the Forest in Shelton. ©Crying Uncle
“Since the event began in 2004 we have really appreciated the auditorium for main stage performances,” remarked organizer and Kiwanis member, Duane Wilson, “but to make it fun and safe for everyone it has been great to brainstorm creative additions in the new space that will make the event even better.”
Families enjoy getting a head start on the picking that starts up the evening before the festival begins as the camp area opens Thursday night. Many of the workshops and instrument “tastings” are led by members of the national bands.
Check schedule HERE for details.
Bluegrass Bands from California and Montana Lead the Lineup
The main stage bands include The Jacob Jolliff Band (NY); Crying Uncle Band (CA), The Lonesome Town Painters (BC), Heartbreak Pass (ID), Caleb and Reeb (WA) The Bar K Buckaroos (OR), Union City Council Bluegrass Band (WA) and host band, Runaway Train Bluegrass Band (WA).
To view the full program preview with band bios and schedules, CLICK HERE.
Family Weekend Getaway
The expanded camping with its forest backdrop hosts over 20 acres for families to find their own areas to enjoy the music and activities. With two stage areas, a beer and wine garden, workshops and family activities including Chick’s Kids Music Workshop, Midnight Hot Dogs and an all ages Country Dance, there is plenty for everyone to do. This year the event will also have on site dining from local food trucks as well as breakfast, lunch and dinner menu served from the on-site kitchen.
This is a fantastic event for a local camp destination with the family. Stay for one, two or all three nights of live performances and workshops and enjoy the surrounding areas like Hood Canal or Olympic National Park during the day, visit Explore Hood Canal for hike and itinerary ideas. A weekend event pass for the whole family (two adults and up to 4 kids) is $110 and camping is just $15 a night. Camping is available Thursday through Sunday so pack up your RV and camp chairs, you can’t get a better family weekend deal!
Embark on the ultimate road trip and find adventure on Hood Canal. Discover trails, beaches, islands, cascading creeks, old growth forests, sparkling alpine lakes and airy mountains. An easy drive from Seattle or Portland, your next adventure is right around the corner. For more information about the Hood Canal Region, check out www.explorehoodcanal.com.
WELCOME TO THE #WILDSIDEWA.