Earl Scruggs Fest ’24 Day One

2:00 pm:

We made it! And it’s HOT. I feel like I’ve been deceived. I swear I looked last week and it said it was supposed to be in the eighties. Lies. We’ve only walked from the gate to our lounge and sweat is trickling down my back. Sign me up for an IV of sweet tea and an IV of water, please.

What I do want to point out is how friendly and helpful the staff/volunteers are here. We parked in the wrong lot today. In the past, we’ve parked in the VIP area because mom was with us and had her handicap sticker. The signs weren’t very clear, so we had to ask where to go. Literally three staff members dispersed and sped around on their little carts trying to find out where we were supposed to be. THEN, once we found our spot, the one man followed us to give us a ride to the gate so we didn’t have to walk!

We’re settled in, cooled down a LOT, and planning out our afternoon/evening schedule!

3:00 pm:

We started out listening to the The Wilder Flower. These kids, (and yes, I am calling them kids because I’m pretty sure I’m old enough to be their grandmother), were talented with their instruments. I wish I could tell you I stayed for the whole segment, but I was way TOO hot. Fun Fact: They’ve played The Radio Room & Fall For Greenville.

4:00 pm

Next up was Pony Bradshaw on the main stage.

4:45 pm

Every time we’ve come, we’ve eaten at Roger’s Diner. I’ve always wanted to try Legends Grill because it looked cool. The prices are a little (a lot) higher but, a lot of times, you get what you pay for. I was hoping it would be worth it.

I don’t typically write negative reviews. If I rave about something, you know I love it. If I’m not a fan, or have a not-so-great experience, I just don’t write anything. All I am going to say about Legends Grill is, save your hard earned cash and pick another spot.

The GREAT news: I got my water and sweet tea hook up! Tomorrow and Sunday, you can find us at the Chick-Fil-A food truck or back at Roger’s.

6:00 pm

The SteelDrivers were AMAZING!

Fun Fact: Chris Stapleton sang with these guys for about four years. I can’t say enough good things about them. The energy rocketed through the roof when they took the stage. So good!

Meet Larry & Joe. We didn’t have the opportunity to hear much, but their story has peaked my interest. I’ll be sharing more about this duo in the future.

We’re on our way to hear the headliners now…

The Earls of Leicester – the epitome of bluegrass. I feel like this group is the heartbeat of the Earl Scruggs Festival.

11:15 pm

We wrapped up Day One with the Yonder Mountain Strings Band. Time stood still y’all. They were unbelievable. Jerry Douglas joined in, adding to the already perfect sound. He is the epitome of “cool.”