Feel the Rhythm.
Bluegrass From the Forest is returning to Shelton for its 17th year in a whole new outdoor festival format. Camping, jamming, workshops, and great bands are hallmarks of this annual event!
September 10-12, 2021
Shelton, Washington
Northwest Bluegrass fans have reason to celebrate and tighten their banjo strings! After a year of no musical gathers and COVID cancellations last year, Kristmas Town Kiwanis’ Bluegrass from the Forest is planning to make a comeback September 10 - 12 at the South Mason Youth Soccer Park on John's Prairie about two miles from downtown Shelton.
Although pandemic restrictions and school construction has made it impossible for the festival to be held at the Performing Arts Center on the Shelton High School property, event organizer, Duane Wilson, is excited by the potential offered by the Soccer Park at Mason County Recreation Area for the Festival’s 16th year.
“We will miss the comfort and all of the amenities that school theater had to offer but feel there are a lot of positives in having the Festival at the soccer park. The biggest one is space. We have fifteen acres to spread people out. Social distancing should not be a problem.”
And spread-out they will, with plans to host two stages areas, a beer and wine garden, and food and vendor spaces near the stages. The festival also will accommodate two RV parking areas and lots of grassy tent sites for out of town festival-goers or for locals who want to be part of the whole experience.
Bluegrass from the Forest was started by Kristmas Town Kiwanis sixteen years ago to raise funds to build a restroom at Callannan Park in Shelton. Over the years the proceeds from the Festival have funded many other projects in Shelton and Mason County, always focusing on helping the youth of the area.
Bluegrass from the Forest is planning their legendary workshops, banjo contest, open mics, mandolin tasting, vendors and the famous Chick Rose School of Bluegrass for the children as well as the popular country dance and midnight hot dogs Saturday night. These events will be held in a 40' x 60' tent and some chairs will be available, but organizers ask that attendees BYOC (bring your own chairs) or blankets.
Bluegrass From the Forest will comply with all State and local laws to present a safe and enjoyable weekend of music and activities.
