June 15, 2026Well, howdy folks! It's that time of year again when the bluegrass calendar is packed to the gills. This week, we've got over 270 shows across nearly 50 states, with 155 different bands taking the stage. As always, there are a few big names making the rounds, but I've also got my eye on a few sleepers that I think you all need to check out.
Let's start with the heavy hitters. Alison Krauss and Union Station are doing a short five-show run, kicking things off on Tuesday at the Bluestem Center for the Arts Amphitheater in Moorhead, Minnesota. If you're in the area, do not miss this one — Alison's voice is as pure as mountain spring water, and the boys in the band can flat-out play. They'll also be hitting Sioux City, Iowa on Wednesday, so if you're a little further west, that's your chance.
Speaking of can't-miss shows, Dailey & Vincent are taking the stage at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville on Tuesday. These guys have been tearing it up on the bluegrass circuit for years, and their vocal harmonies are out of this world. I've lost count of how many IBMA awards they've racked up — if you want to see some true masters at work, get your tickets now.
Under-the-Radar Picks
Now, I know a lot of you are all about the big names, but let me tell you about a few acts that I think are really worth checking out, even if they're not household names (yet).
First up, Shelby Lee Means is playing a show on Tuesday at the eagleview town center in Exton, Pennsylvania. This woman's voice is like honey, and her songwriting is top-notch. She's got a new album called Tilt-a-Whirl that's been getting a lot of buzz in the bluegrass blogosphere, so if you're in the Philly area, do yourself a favor and go see her.
Another one to keep an eye on is Tidalwave Road. They're playing on Wednesday at the Bill Monroe Music Park & Campground in Morgantown, Indiana. These guys have a really unique sound — it's bluegrass at its core, but they're not afraid to mix in a little rock and even some electronic elements. It's always a high-energy show, and they've got a killer new album called Chasing the Storm that you should definitely check out.
Festival Season is Heating Up
Of course, it wouldn't be summer without some big bluegrass festivals, and this week is no exception. Over in Telluride, Colorado, the Telluride Bluegrass Festival is kicking off, and you know they've got some heavy hitters on the lineup. Clay Street Unit and Chris Thile are both playing, and those are two acts that I can guarantee will blow the roof off the place.
Meanwhile, down in Morgantown, Indiana, the Bean Blossom Bluegrass Festival is in full swing. The Kody Norris Show is playing on Wednesday, and if you haven't seen these guys live, you're missing out. Kody's got a voice that'll give you chills, and the rest of the band are virtuosos. Junior Sisk is also on the bill, and that's another name that should be familiar to any self-respecting bluegrass fan.
And over in Roxboro, North Carolina, the Willow Oak Bluegrass Festival is happening, with Lonesome River Band taking the stage. These guys have been around for ages, but they still manage to keep things fresh and exciting. If you're in the mood for some classic, high-energy bluegrass, this is the show for you.
Well, folks, that's just a small taste of what's going on this week in the world of bluegrass. As always, you can find the full schedule of events over on GrassGigs.com. And if you're looking for a personal recommendation, I'd say keep an eye out for that Tidalwave Road show in Morgantown. Those guys are really doing something special, and I have a feeling they're going to be the talk of the scene before too long.