Hickory Fest Bluegrass Festival

Hickory Fest, often referred to as the Sue Cunningham Memorial Music Festival, is a vibrant and family-friendly celebration of bluegrass and acoustic music that takes place at the picturesque Stony Fork Creek Campground in Wellsboro, Pennsylvania. This annual event is tailored for music enthusiasts, families, and those who appreciate the rich cultural heritage of bluegrass music.

The festival is scheduled for August 16th through 18th, with the music kicking off at 1:30 PM on Friday and continuing through Sunday. Over these three days, attendees can enjoy more than 30 hours of live music featuring an impressive lineup of performers, including Donna the Buffalo, the Claire Lynch Band, and Verlon Thompson. Each day is filled with a diverse array of musical acts, ensuring there is something for every bluegrass and acoustic music fan.

Stony Fork Creek Campground, located at 658 Stony Fork Road in Wellsboro, serves as the perfect venue for this festival. The campground is nestled in the heart of the Pennsylvania Wilds, just six miles south of Wellsboro and six miles from the stunning PA Grand Canyon. The area is easily accessible via car, with the nearest major highway being US Route 6. For those traveling from further afield, the nearest airport is the Elmira-Corning Regional Airport in New York, about an hour’s drive away. Local transportation and shuttle services are also available to ensure smooth travel to and from the festival.

The setting of Stony Fork Creek Campground is a significant part of the festival’s charm. Surrounded by lush forests and the serene Stony Fork Creek, the venue offers a natural and peaceful backdrop that complements the music perfectly. The campground itself provides various accommodation options, including camping sites and cabin rentals, making it an ideal destination for families and those who wish to immerse themselves fully in the festival experience.

One of the standout features of Hickory Fest is its inclusive and educational approach. Free workshops are available for attendees to learn about fiddle, mandolin, guitar, banjo, and clogging, making it a unique opportunity for both beginners and seasoned musicians to hone their skills. The festival also boasts a variety of great food and craft vendors, offering everything from local delicacies to handmade crafts.

The energy at Hickory Fest is palpable, with a strong sense of community and camaraderie among attendees. The festival honors the memory of Sue Cunningham through its music scholarship program, adding a layer of depth and purpose to the celebration. As the sun sets over the Pennsylvania Wilds, the atmosphere becomes even more enchanting, with stargazing opportunities and campfires that extend the musical experience into the night.

For music lovers, families, and anyone looking to connect with nature and culture, Hickory Fest is an event that promises unparalleled delight. With its rich lineup of performers, educational workshops, delicious local cuisine, and the breathtaking natural setting of Stony Fork Creek Campground, this festival is a must-attend for anyone seeking a memorable and enriching experience.