Department of Tourism
Blazin' Bluegrass Fest Going Strong in Fourth Year

WHITLEY CITY, Ky. - For the fourth consecutive year, the hills and hollows of scenic McCreary County will be filled with the sounds and feel of bluegrass music this month. The Blazin’ Bluegrass Festival is set for Thursday Sept. 18 through Saturday Sept. 20, and will again be held at the Sandhill Conservation Camp near Whitley City, Ky.

The 2008 festival will feature some of the best in regional bluegrass music from bands like the host Kentucky Wind, Mixed County Bluegrass, Bluegrass 101, Shadow Ridge and Southern Sun, to name a few. On Saturday, the busy schedule will include various instrument workshops throughout the day, a ceremony honoring local veterans Saturday morning, and an impressive fireworks show just after dark Saturday night.

The three day festival begins Thursday Sept. 18 with a mix of country, bluegrass, and folk style music with free admission. This will be followed by an all gospel and bluegrass-gospel night Friday Sept. 19 with an admission charge of only $5. Then, Saturday the music heats up with a full day of great bluegrass music with an admission price of only $8. A festival pass for just $10 covers admission to all three days of music and fun.

Camping is available on site, both RV and primitive, but reservations are suggested as sites will fill up fast. For camping information and reservations, call Sandhill Camp at 606-376-9333. For general festival information, contact Doris Slavey at 606-382-5005 or log onto www.blazinbluegrass.com or www.kyvacations.com.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is a short drive from the festival site. The park provides comfortable accommodations in its historic DuPont Lodge, in cottages and the campground. Delicious meals are served daily in the Riverview Restaurant in the lodge. For more information about the park call 800-325-0063.

All local and regional crafters are also invited to set up a table or booth at the festival to display, demonstrate and sell their handcrafted products. To reserve your space for only $10 a day or $15 for all three days, contact Adam Phillips at 606-376-3008 or e-mail mccrearytourism@yahoo.com. You can also download a craft vendor form online at www.blazinbluegrass.com.       
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