STRUMMING IN THE FOREST
For a decade and a half Shelton has been striking a chord with nationally recognized bluegrass bands and players at the Annual Bluegrass from the Forest Festival. Music lovers of all ages converge on the little town for three days, immersing in great music and reveling in the natural beauty of the area. Dust off your fiddle and head to Shelton for some fantastic scenery and a weekend of the best bluegrass music this side of the Appalachians. The 2020 festival has undergone some big changes to accommodate COVID-19 concerns – but organizers are still planning a great event!
The first dramatic change was rescheduling the three day event from May to September 11-13. This date was selected for a time when it was safer for the musicians to play music together and accommodate the bands’ schedules. Instead of starting the Bluegrass season, the non-profit organizers will be capping it with a welcome opportunity to get out and listen to some great music! Organizers anticipate challenges with the changes but look forward to expanded opportunities. September is the ideal time in the Northwest to take this festival into the forest! The event is relocating to a outdoor venue, the Mason County Recreation Area – less than three miles from the former lo-
FJORD
38
New outdoor location and rescheduled dates for Bluegrass from the Forest - SEPTEMBER 11-13 @ Mason County Recreation Area
cation. This outdoor expansion will allow for plenty of space for everyone to spread out and enjoy the concerts. The larger area will allow for more space between camp sites as well, along with additional food and music vendors and even a beer and wine garden near the stage. The 2020 line up includes: Crying Uncle from California; Kristen Grainger and True North and Whiskey Deaf both from Oregon; as well as Salzer Creek and Runaway Train (host band), both from Washington. Volume Five canceled owing too a scheduling conflick but all the other bands are still tentatively scheduled to head to Shelton for the revised dates.
