CHARLIE POOLE MUSIC FESTIVAL - THRILL-PACKED WEEKEND JUNE 13-14

"This year’s Charlie Poole Music Festival, June 13-14th, promises to be the most exciting in the 19 years of the festival’s history! It is packed with major headliners, new events, new competitions, and even a dance.

The weekend leads off on Thursday evening, June 12, with a benefit honoring Rockingham County’s own nationally famous star, legendary guitarist Tony Rice. There will be music, food, and an opportunity to show appreciation for this distinguished artist.

The Festival itself kicks off at 6:30 Friday evening with three headline acts, the first being the South Carolina Broadcasters, an old time band with a tremendous following.  One of their members, Ivy, is a Rockingham County native, as well.

Next is Dom Flemons, a major member of the original Carolina Chocolate Drops group that hit the headlines with a splash and multiple Grammy nominations. Dom is now performing solo as “The American Songster.”

And next is David Holt, yes, that David Holt, Grammy winning star of Public Broadcasting, famous for his music and story-telling prowess. He will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Charlie Poole Music Festival.

There will be a new MC, Josh Marlowe, of 103.7 Country Legends.  Josh has been a regular competitor at the festival, so he knows both sides of the stage.

Saturday competition starts at 11AM with 18 different categories for both youth and adult, instrument and vocal, building up to the major competition at about 8 PM, the Old-Time Three-Finger Banjo with its $500 prize. No excuse for any music lover, amateur or nearly pro, not to find a slot to win a ribbon and a prize!

Then Surprise! A Saturday Night Dance, a new feature for Charlie Poole, presenting the Hushpuppies with caller Aaron Ratcliffe. This will fill the time with fun while the judges’ scores are being totaled up, and at 10 PM comes the big moment when the ribbons and prizes will be given out.

What an exciting weekend! Tickets are $15 for Friday night, and $15 for all day Saturday, or a weekend pass for $25.  The special “At Home with Tony Rice” event Thursday evening is $25 with BBQ dinner (reservations required), or $15 for the music only. Basic camping is free for paid patrons, and there will be a Little Ramblers tent with activities for children. There will be craft vendors and food vendors, and a wonderful carnival atmosphere in beautiful GovernorMorehead Park. See www.charlie-poole.com  for more details, and join us for a really fun weekend.  For more information you may call 336-623-1043."

A Press Release