For bluegrass fans, summer isn’t complete without a pilgrimage to the Walsh Farm in the Greene County hamlet of Oak Hill, for the Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival. From July 16 to 20, this iconic camping and music festival will once again transform a quiet hay farm into a vibrant, music-filled pop-up city, drawing thousands of fans from across the country and beyond.
Over four decades, Grey Fox has built a reputation for blending tradition with innovation, and this year’s lineup is no exception. Festival favorites like the Del McCoury Band, Sam Bush Band, Sierra Hull, and Della Mae return, while fresh additions like The California Honeydrops and Cris Jacobs promise to shake things up. The festival’s host band, Dry Branch Fire Squad, will keep the spirit alive, while this year’s Artist-in-Residence, Grammy-winner Woody Platt, will lead special collaborations throughout the weekend.
As always, Grey Fox pushes the boundaries of bluegrass, featuring acts that defy easy categorization. Mr Sun brings a jazzy edge, New Dangerfield carries the torch for Black stringband traditions, and AJ Lee & Blue Summit infuse rootsy Americana with a modern twist. International acts like Ireland’s JigJam, Germany’s Johnny & The Yooahoos, and Venezuela-meets-Appalachia duo Larry & Joe further expand the festival’s global reach.
A highlight of Grey Fox is the Emerging Artist Showcase, where the next generation of talent gets its moment in the spotlight. This year’s lineup includes The Wilder Flower, High Horse, and Berklee College of Music’s Catfish in the Sky, among others.
Beyond the music, the festival fosters a deep sense of community. Attendees jam together, share meals, and look out for one another. This year, that spirit extends to supporting North Carolina bands impacted by Hurricane Helene’s floods, including Grammy-winning Steep Canyon Rangers and Unspoken Tradition.
Special performances will mark Grey Fox 2025, including a tribute to bluegrass pioneer Hazel Dickens and a Woodstock Celebration honoring the late, great Happy Traum. Meanwhile, families can enjoy the Grey Fox Bluegrass Academy for Kids, a free music program that nurtures young talent.
Camping, day tickets, and glamping options are available, with senior discounts and free admission for kids 12 and under. Tickets are on sale now at greyfoxbluegrass.com.
