Music, Mission, and Tradition: Carter County Shrine Club celebrates 35 years of bluegrass festival

OLIVE HILL, Ky – The Carter County Shrine Club is inviting the community and visitors from across the region and beyond to gather for the 35th Annual Carter County Shrine Club Bluegrass Festival, a beloved summer tradition that blends music, fellowship, and a meaningful cause.

Held at Carter County Shrine Park in Olive Hill, the multi-day event draws attendees from near and far to celebrate bluegrass music in a welcoming, family-friendly environment. 

This year’s festival is slated for July 16 through 18. 

According to Donny Owens, President of the Carter County Shrine Club, the festival’s reach extends well beyond Eastern Kentucky.

“The Shrine Club and the local community come out and enjoy bluegrass music, and even people from countries like Australia have been at our festival. Locals and people from other states and counties come to enjoy the hospitality and the show grounds as well…it’s a beautiful place,” Owens said.

Now celebrating its 35th year, the festival has built a reputation for both its longevity and its purpose. Owens says its continued success is rooted in the shared passion of bluegrass fans and a commitment to giving back.

“We have continued for 35 years because bluegrass fans are always willing to come together for a cause, especially for children,” Owens said. “And that is what the Shriners organization is all about…changing lives, supporting families of Shriners hospital patients, providing hope to children that need it the most.”

Each year, the festival features a dynamic lineup of talent, including nationally recognized performers and emerging artists in the bluegrass scene.

“We have brought bands who are International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) nominees and winners. We bring in bands that our attendees want to see,as well as highlighting 'up and newcomers.’ Our festival has stayed for 35 years because people keep coming back to support us.” Owens said.

In addition to live music, attendees can enjoy a variety of food and craft vendors, creating a vibrant festival atmosphere that offers something for all ages.

“This festival is all about raising funds in support of Shriners Children’s hospitals, specifically those in Lexington and Dayton, while providing great music and delicious food, fellowship, and fun in a wonderful family-friendly event,” Owens said.

All proceeds from the event support the mission of Shriners Children’s, which provides specialized care to children regardless of a family’s financial situation.

Last year, the Carter County Shrine Club was able to make a near $20,000 gift to those two children’s hospitals, due to the funds raised from the previous year’s festival and other donations.

“The Shriners mission is dedicated to ensure children and families have access to specialized treatment regardless of their ability to pay,” said Owens. “We do it for the kids, as we say. This festival is just one way we can accomplish that mission.”

Festivalgoers are encouraged to take advantage of the full experience, including on-site camping options. Organizers also host a special appreciation dinner for campers on Wednesday evening prior to the start of the festival, featuring a home-cooked menu of soup beans, cornbread, fried potatoes, sauerkraut with wieners, greens, desserts, and drinks.

Tickets for the Carter County Shrine Club Bluegrass Festival can be purchased online or at the gate. For a full schedule, lineup details, camping information, and additional updates, visit www.shrinersbluegrassfestival.com.