Excitement Builds as Elizabethton Unveils Star-Studded Lineup for Covered Bridge Days Festival

Elizabethton, a charming city known for its rich history and vibrant community events, is buzzing with excitement as the highly anticipated Covered Bridge Days Festival is just around the corner. The City of Elizabethton Parks and Recreation Department has just revealed the star-studded lineup for this year’s festival, set to take place from Friday, Sept. 20, through Sunday, Sept. 22. This three-day celebration promises to be an unforgettable weekend full of music, food, crafts, and family fun.

The festival kicks off on Friday, Sept. 20, with a performance by the celebrated bluegrass performer Daniel Grindstaff. Known for his exceptional banjo skills, Grindstaff has carved out a significant name for himself in the Bluegrass, Americana, and Country music scenes. A native of East Tennessee, his resume includes performances at the Grand Ole Opry and numerous national television appearances. Notably, Grindstaff is a nominee for the 2024 International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Collaborative Recording of the Year and Song of the Year for “Forever Young,” a collaboration with Paul Brewster and Dolly Parton.

The excitement continues on Saturday, Sept. 21, when the iconic Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder take the stage. Skaggs, a true legend in country and bluegrass music, has been honored with multiple Grammy Awards and has been inducted into the National Fiddler Hall of Fame, IBMA’s Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Skaggs’ illustrious career spans decades, with hits like “Highway 40 Blues” and “Heartbroke” becoming staples in the genre. His return performance at Covered Bridge Days is set to be a highlight of the weekend, offering a blend of traditional bluegrass and country that showcases his unparalleled talent and passion for music.

The festival will conclude on Sunday, Sept. 22, with a performance by the Grammy-winning gospel and country artist Jason Crabb. Known for his powerful voice and inspirational songs like “Through the Fire” and “He Knows What He’s Doing,” Crabb has received two Grammy Awards and 22 Gospel Music Association (GMA) Dove Awards. As the youngest inductee into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame, Crabb’s emotive and engaging performances promise to provide a fitting and memorable closing act for the event.

David Nanney, Director of the Elizabethton Parks and Recreation Department, expressed his excitement about the lineup, saying, “We are incredibly excited to bring such an outstanding lineup of performers to Covered Bridge Days this year. Each of these artists brings something unique to the table, and we are confident that their performances will create an unforgettable experience for all attendees.”

In addition to the stellar music performances, the festival will feature a variety of arts and crafts vendors, local food trucks, and family-friendly activities. This weekend-long festival is made possible thanks to the generous support of sponsors, including Tour Carter County, the Elizabethton Chamber, Eastman Credit Union, and Select Seven Credit Union. Their contributions ensure that the event remains a beloved community tradition.

For those looking to join the fun, more information and updates can be found by visiting the official website under the Parks and Recreation tab or through the Elizabethton Parks and Recreation Department’s Facebook page @elizabethtonparksandrecreation. Any inquiries can be directed to the department at 423-547-6441.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enjoy a weekend of fantastic music, delicious food, and engaging activities. The Covered Bridge Days Festival is the perfect way to celebrate the start of fall in East Tennessee, bringing together community members and visitors to enjoy the best in local and national talent. So mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and head to Elizabethton for a weekend full of fun and unforgettable experiences.