Musicians perform beneath red stage lights as a crowd watches at an outdoor concert.

Summer Music Festivals & Events in the NC High Country 2023

May 30, 2023

Summer is the perfect time to explore the beautiful North Carolina High Country, and part of the fun is attending the amazing music festivals the region boasts. From jam bands and bluegrass to country and rock, these festivals offer something for everyone. Whether it's your first time experiencing a live music event in the NC High Country, or you're a regular, here are some of the biggest and best music festivals to check out this summer.

People gather outdoors for a summer music event on a grassy lawn.

Summer Concerts at Jones House (Free): Summer Concerts at the Jones House kicks off its 30th season on June 2ndl The popular weekly concert series showcases local and regional acts. This year's lineup features a variety of musical genres that will appeal to all types of music fans - bluegrass, jazz, folk, brass, songwriters, Celtic, and more. every week on Friday until August 25, 2023!

High Country Jazz Festival: The second annual High Country Jazz Festival takes place June 9 - 11, 2023 in various beautiful venues in both Boone and Blowing Rock. Hear from some phenomenal jazz musicians at the historic Appalachian Theatre of the High Country, pluscatch shows at outdoor venues, late-night jams, jazz brunches, and more.

Boonerang Music & Arts Festival: Downtown Boone is the festival grounds of Boonerang Music and Arts Festival. Artists of all kinds with connections to the town will be performing within walking distance of shops, restaurants, breweries, and more. In addition to finding music on multiple stages, enjoy locally-brewed beer, kids' activities, silent discos, and afterparties. The festival kicks off with evening performances on June 15 at the Appalachian Theatre and June 16th at the North Depot Stage, then continues with an all-day street festival with multiple stages on Saturday, June 17th

Musicians perform onstage at Boonerang Arts Festival before a crowd.

Blowing Rock Concerts in the Park (Free): Bring a lawn chair or blanket to Memorial Park on Main Street to enjoy the music - all concerts begin at 4 pm. Free, family-friendly entertainment from a variety of musical genres. 6/11/2023, 7/16/2023, 8/13/2023, 9/10/2023, 10/8/2023.

Music on the Lawn at Ragged Gardens (Free): Head to the lawn at the Inn at Ragged Gardens for an annual concert series every Friday, May through October (weather permitting). A different regional band will take the stage each week. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and cash for the bar and lawn menu. every week on Friday until September 29, 20231

Todd Summer Concert Series: The 2023 Todd Summer Concert Series kicks off with the Burnett Sisters taking the stage at Walter and Anne Cook Memorial Park on June 24th - right by the banks of the New River in Todd, NC.

Symphony By The Lake: Experience a moving performance by the Symphony of the Mountains. Surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge landscape, take your seat on the grass by Chetola Lake, under the evening sky. July 21, 2023 from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM!

Festival crowd watches a purple-lit stage at a lakeside venue beneath a sunset sky.

Party on the Mountain: Don't miss a moment of the musical action at Beech Mountain Resort this summer July 28 - Sheryl Crow w/ Southern Avenue, July 29 - J.J. Grey & Mofro / Dawes, July 30 - My Morning Jacket w/ Katie Pruitt.

Banner Elk Summer Concerts in the Park: Free eclectic Music on an outdoor stage. Food and beer/wine vendors on site. Bring your own chair & blanket! Thursday Evenings, June-August @ 6:30 pm.

Music in the Valle: From May through September, join them at Valle Crucis Community Park; Fridays from 6:00 PM until dusk, weather permitting!

Linville Falls Winery Summer Music Series: Starts June 21. Music, food truck and wine sales on site.

Summer Square Dance: An evening of fun in Blue Ridge Mountain style with live music by Bluegrass Blend, food from the "What the Cluck" food truck, and a Square Dance caller to lead you through the steps! We encourage you to break out your boots and wear your "country best". The event is free, with food available for purchase from the truck. We also always break out a special wine drink or two for the occasion!

We hope you all have a Safe & Happy 2023 Summer Festival Season!

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