There are also workshops, for adults to hone their skills on all the traditional instruments, given by some of the performers.
When the musicians are not on stage they can often be found up at the shelter at the top of the hill signin’ autographs and just jawin’ with their fans. There isn’ t a big wall of separation between the stars and the audience. There is a“ we’ re all just folks attitude.”
If this is your first time at the festival I expect that you will be plum amazed at how comfortable and commodious the park is. Whether you prefer camping in a pup tent or you cruise over in a land yacht there is clean water, toilets, hot showers, and electrical hookups. I really enjoy the campground experience just for the instant communities that spring up. It doesn’ t matter who you pitch your tent next to or who pulls their camper in next to you because you already have Bluegrass in common. So, your new neighbors are just good friends you haven’ t met yet.
I know what it is like to get ready for the big festival camp out. You make out your lists of essentials
Larry Sparks and Lonesome Ramblers. and run around gatherin’ stuff in piles in the living room and you try your best not to forget anything. If you’ re like me, you wind up hauling enough“ necessaries” to get you through a month in the barren wilderness but then forget the toilet paper. Luckily, the park has a camp store right on the premises with about anything you might need.
You don’ t need to pack much food because of all the vendors. I can’ t resist the fried green tomatoes, Northern Pike fillet sandwiches, roastin’ ears, barbecued ribs, kettle corn, and more. I think maybe this year I should try a little dietin’ before the festival. I can’ t say enough about the good vittles and friendliness of the concessionaires. I think if those folks just got together and threw a food festival I’ d be at the head of the ticket line.
So, with mouth-waterin’ food, great accommodations, friendly folks, top of the list entertainers, and a family friendly attitude, a visit to the Bill Monroe Memorial Bluegrass Festival is a perfect get away. Whether you come for a day or spend the whole week, a trip to Bean Blossom is a unique and unforgettable experience.
Tickets for the festival can be purchased in advance for a discounted rate until June 1. You can buy tickets by the day or get three-day and eight-day combo passes. Youngsters 13 to 16 years old get a $ 5 discount per day and kids 12 and under get in free if accompanied by an adult. Camping is extra. Sites are available with electric hookups or you can camp primitive. Tickets are available by calling( 800) 414-4677 or( 812) 988-6422 or online at < www. beanblossom. us >. •
May / June 2015 • Our Brown County 17