CARYVILLE, TN (SPECIAL TO WLAF) – The Louie Bluie Music & Arts Festival is thrilled to announce its 2024 lineup, featuring a mix of returning favorites and exciting new acts. Headlining this year’s festival is the M.S.G. Acoustic Blues Trio, promising a captivating performance that will be a highlight for attendees.

M.S.G. Acoustic Blues Trio performs traditional blues, influenced by the likes of Archie Edwards, Etta Baker, and Cephas & Wiggins. You’ll love their warm, lighthearted, innovative style. 

The festival is also delighted to welcome back James (Sparky) and Rhonda Rucker, renowned for their engaging storytelling and musical talents. New additions to the lineup include the Sequatchie River Band and Mal Nombre, who are sure to bring fresh energy to the event. Additionally, Andy Cohen from Memphis will be gracing the stage, adding to the festival’s rich musical tapestry.

Additional performers will be announced as contracts are signed. If you’re interested in booking your band, visit our website.

The festival is proud to host Traditional Arts Apprenticeships Program artists once again, showcasing exceptional talent and creativity. Bob Fulcher will produce the LaFollette Old Time Fiddlers, a nod to the original Old Fiddlers Convention in LaFollette from the early 1900s, deeply rooted in Howard Armstrong’s legacy.

One of the standout features this year is the return of the jam tent, led by the inimitable Tony Branam. Branam will also add buck dancing and square dancing into the festivities! 

Arts & Crafts Village

Festival organizers are actively seeking artisans for the Arts & Crafts Village. Crafters whose work shows originality, craftsmanship, quality of design, and appropriateness to the Appalachian tradition are highly encouraged to apply. We’re looking for individual artists, school art clubs, or organizations dedicated to encouraging the arts, as well as certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit groups that may want a presence to deliver their mission to attendees. 

Come shop for unique gifts for the upcoming holidays, and be part of this cherished tradition that celebrates the rich musical heritage of Campbell County. Together, let’s make this year’s Festival an unforgettable experience!

All applications will be reviewed by a committee and participation is subject to approval. This is to prevent too many vendors from offering the same items. Learn more about the application process. Application deadline is Sept. 3. 

Additional Opportunities

The ArtSpace tent will once again feature student artists, providing a platform for young talent to shine. Learn more about the Youth Art Competition and how to submit entries.

Families and children can look forward to the return of NATURE-ing, offering interactive activities and exciting learning opportunities about the great outdoors.

Food lovers will be delighted with the diverse and tasty offerings from our food vendors – including good ol’ baloney sandwiches! We are still accepting applications for food vendors! To prevent vendors from offering similar items and ensuring all proper health permits, all applications will be reviewed and participation is subject to approval. Application deadline: Sept. 1st.

The festival also includes a quilt judging and exhibit. Watch for details with regards to this competition coming soon!

Would you like to volunteer?

This festival would never happen without the help of our dedicated volunteers. We need over 100 volunteers and would love to count you among them! We need help setting up, picking up trash, helping vendors and performers know where to go and more. All volunteers receive a free T-shirt, free bottled water, and a full-day of music and fun at beautiful Cove Lake State Park. Sign-up to be a volunteer. 

About the Louie Bluie Festival

The Festival takes place at Cove Lake State Park in Caryville, a town in the heart of mountain music country. Historically, Campbell County is a place steeped in music, and today is no different. It’s the home of Howard “Louie Bluie” Armstrong, the festival’s namesake, who grew up in LaFollette in the 1920s and was an incredibly talented string band virtuoso. He was an artist, a storyteller and a writer who mastered the fiddle, mandolin and guitar. 

Plan now to be there! The festival begins at 10 a.m. with continuous family-friendly fun until 6 p.m. Since 2007, the Campbell Culture Coalition has curated this one-of-a-kind experience, bringing people of all ages together to revel in the joy and festivities. The festival is a celebration of the unique and vibrant culture that pulses through the region, a testament to the enduring legacy of Louie Bluie himself.

Don’t let this opportunity slip away. Join us and immerse yourself in the sheer delight and enchantment that awaits. Mark your calendars and prepare to be captivated by the Louie Bluie Music and Art Festival. We can’t wait to share this unforgettable experience with you!

Additional performers will be announced soon, so be sure to follow the Festival’s Facebook page for updates. You can also visit here for more information.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 07/02/2024-6AM)