Join us for the Lakeside Bluegrass Festival, a two-day summer celebration from Aug. 8-9 in Lakeside, Ohio. This exciting festival brings together nationally recognized bluegrass artists, family-friendly activities and unforgettable music.
SATURDAY HEADLINE CONCERT:
THE DEL MCCOURY BAND WITH THE TRAVELIN’ MCCOURYS
7:30 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 8
Hoover Auditorium
Doors open at 7 p.m.
A true legend of American music headlines Lakeside’s 2nd Annual Bluegrass Festival.
Few names in bluegrass carry the weight and reverence of Del McCoury. From humble beginnings in York County, Pennsylvania, to the iconic stages of the Grand Ole Opry, McCoury has been a defining force in the genre for nearly eight decades.
Along the way, he has captivated audiences on primetime and late-night television, sold-out concerts and music festivals of every size and style, earning admiration from country-rock icon Steve Earle to jam band legends Phish.
McCoury’s journey began as a teenager, inspired by the banjo virtuosity of Earl Scruggs. By 1963, he joined Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys, where the "Father of Bluegrass" transformed him from banjo player to lead guitarist and singer, providing him with a lifetime of musical insight and mentorship.
Today, leading The Del McCoury Band alongside his sons Ronnie and Rob, he remains a peerless torchbearer of bluegrass, blending decades of tradition with a willingness to embrace new sounds and connect with a new generation of fans. With unmatched musicianship, storytelling and heart, McCoury delivers an evening of bluegrass that is as timeless as it is inspiring.
FAMILY ACTIVITIES BEFORE THE HEADLINE CONCERT
In the case of inclement weather, all Family Activities will be held in the Hoover Auditorium lobby.
Before you take in the iconic music of The Del McCoury Band with The Travelin’ McCourys, enjoy family activities that celebrate bluegrass.
Arts and Crafts
Children of all ages are invited to make a couple of different Bluegrass-related crafts. There’s no cost to participate, and registration is not required.
Meet the Instruments
Families can meet the family of common Bluegrass instruments. Regional musician Drew Andreatta will be on hand with banjo, mandolin, guitar, fiddle, and more for families to hear demonstrations and try them out as well.
Roaming Musicians
Paul Kovac, and David Mayfield – two of Ohio’s own longtime musical treasures – will be “at large” in the area playing and singing Bluegrass and traditional American favorites. These two master musicians are as personable and engaging as they are talented.
Family Square Dance (4:30-5:30 p.m.)
As part of the Bluegrass Festival afternoon activities, join us for an intergenerational family square dance organized by Char Wilkerson. Recommended for ages 10+ and for those who are able. Experience is not necessary but encouraged. See the Rhein Center class schedule for classes throughout the summer to learn square dancing.
SUNDAY CLOSING CONCERT:
THE SPECIAL CONSENSUS
South Auditorium (540 Central Ave.)
Led by founder Greg Cahill, a recipient of the Distinguished Achievement Award from the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) and member of the Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music in America (SPBGMA) Hall of Greats, the band has earned seven IBMA awards and two Grammy nominations.
The ensemble’s lineup — Cahill on banjo, Greg Blake on guitar (2023 IBMA Male Vocalist of the Year), Dan Eubanks on bass and Brian McCarty on mandolin — delivers tight, authentic bluegrass with skill and passion.
Their 2018 album Rivers and Roads was nominated for a Grammy and named IBMA Album of the Year, with the track “Squirrel Hunters” earning Instrumental Recorded Performance of the Year.
The band marked its 45th Anniversary in 2020 with Chicago Barn Dance, whose title track won the 2020 IBMA Song of the Year Award.
The Special Consensus continues to innovate while honoring tradition. Their 2023 release, Great Blue North, features the Gordon Lightfoot classic “Alberta Bound,” which received the 2023 IBMA Collaborative Recording of the Year Award and the 2024 Music Video of the Year.
With a legacy of excellence and a passion for bluegrass, The Special Consensus remains a defining voice in the genre.
ACTIVITIES BEFORE THE CONCERT:
MEET THE BAND & COMMUNITY JAM SESSION
ADMISSION & PARKING
Admission and parking fees include admittance to the Lakeside grounds, as well as access to evening entertainment in Hoover Auditorium, the bandstand show, the pool, wellness center, and a variety of religious, educational, cultural and recreational opportunities.
Parking within the gates of Lakeside is limited. Festival attendees are encouraged to park in the Danbury School Parking Lot or South Gate Parking Lot. A shuttle is provided from the South Gate Parking Lot. BUY ADMISSION & PARKING!
