ALL roads lead to Karuah this weekend as the town celebrates the 10th Birthday of its fantastic Bluegrass Music Festival.

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The festival kicks off on Friday 23 March at the Karuah RSL with an opening concert hosted by headline act The Mid North from Bellingen and local bluegrass artist Gleny Rae.

On Saturday morning, the Festival moves to the main street, with market stalls and live music including a breakfast show by local troubadours The Fruittrees at the BP restaurant from 8.30am.

There’s plenty happening too in Longworth Park, from circus performers to workshops for young aspiring acrobats.

And of course let’s not forget the music.

“In some ways we’re going back to the beginnings going back to Longworth Park,” event team member James Campbell said.

Musicians will take to the main stage at Longworth Park just before midday with popular Gloucester band The Grasscutters.and the music will continue until 7pm.

A variety of instrumental workshops will be hosted at the Karuah Primary School throughout Saturday, plus a very special songwriting workshop from 10am to Midday.

‘Political Agitation Through Songwriting’ will offer a comprehensive introduction to the art of political satire and protest songs hosted by Newcastle’s Derek Dowding, winner of the 2018 John Dengate Political Satire Song Writing Competition.

Participants will be able to test their skills on Sunday at a competition held at the Anglican Church at 11.30am.

James Campbell said there’s another reason to celebrate, “On Sunday morning we’ll be doing Bluegrass Gospel in church for the first time.

‘’The mission of the Karuah Bluegrass Music Festival is to create an event where musicians, residents and music lovers can gather to enjoy acoustic music, share ideas, learn new music skills and enjoy a weekend of performances in a beautiful setting,” James said.

Another huge bonus is that every performance is free!

For a full line up of performers and activities head to https://www.facebook.com/karuahbluegrass/

By Margie TIERNEY