70,000 Attend Merlfest 2009

by | 30 Apr, 2009

docwatsonAs the last notes of music rang out over the hillside and crews began dismantling stages, early estimates suggest that more than 70,000 fans had attended Merlfest’s four day music festival.

Even in a tough economy, attendance on Thursday was the 5th highest on a Thursday in the festival’s history.  On Friday, MerleFest experienced the 4th highest Friday attendance, while Saturday’s numbers were on par with Saturday of 2008.  At the time of this release, Sunday’s final numbers were not available.

We have had an incredible weekend, with so many dedicated fans taking advantage of the beautiful weather and enjoying a wide range of musical performances, Reports from surveys and interviews with fans tell us that our attendees took advantage of the entertainment value that we take pride in offering every year.  With over 95 artists performing on 15 stages over the four days of the festival, in addition to a variety of activities and shopping, there was truly something for everyone.  We’re grateful to the folks of Wilkes County, to everyone who works here at the college, to all of our volunteers, and of course the fans,  for making our 22nd festival another one worthy of the history books. -  festival director Ted Hagaman.

MerleFest, held anually, honors the memory of Eddy Merle Watson and the musical contributions of Doc, Merle and the entire Watson family. The event started in 1988 and is the biggest fund-raiser for the Wilkes Community College. Dates for Merlfest 2010 are 29th April 29  to 2nd May.

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