We Love Rainier WA, a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the small Thurston County-based community, will host the 32nd annual Bluegrass Festival on Friday, Aug. 21, Saturday, Aug. 22, and Sunday, Aug. 23, during Rainier Round-Up Days weekend at Wilkowski Park.
The annual festival is known for its family-friendly environment, and features a combination of different organized performances and “informal jamming sessions” that the entire community is welcome to join.
Set to perform at the 32nd annual Bluegrass Festival are The Dills Family Band of Friends, 100 Huckleberries, Thurston County Line and Hardshell Harmony.
According to a press release from We Love Rainier WA, there will be an open mic session at 6 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 21, followed by “jamming and picking.”
Additionally, a plethora of live entertainment will take place at Wilkowski Park between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 22.
The action on Sunday, Aug. 23, includes a “gospel jam,” which is set to begin at 9:30 a.m. at Wilkowski Park.
“During the open mic (session), we are also inviting any and all local talented acoustic players to get on the stage and share their music,” George Johnson, Chair of We Love Rainier WA wrote. “Bluegrass country and even 60s and 70s music is welcome. Participants will receive a traditional candy bar thank you.”
Musicians will begin to arrive in Rainier on Thursday, Aug. 20, and will be heard jamming in the afternoon and evening hours throughout the campground area of Wilkowski Park during the course of the three day event.
Attendees of the event will have the opportunity to purchase food, and proceeds from those sales will benefit the Rainier Marching Band.
Additionally, a corn feed is set for Friday and Saturday night. Coffee and donuts will also be available during morning hours on Saturday.
Additionally, with the cost of living rising and affordability maintaining its status as a household topic, the annual Bluegrass Festival will be free for the community to attend — creating an affordable entertainment opportunity for the community.
The festival will coincide with the annual Rainier Round-Up Days event, which includes a street dance at 6 p.m. on Friday night at Holiday Park. The dance will feature the Randy Band, with food and drinks available for purchase.
Additionally, the Rainier Saturday Market, located next to the Rainier Chapel, will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. The Rainier Round-Up parade is also set for 11 a.m. on Saturday.
Attendees of the activities in Rainier are encouraged to bring their own chairs and blankets for throughout the event.
For more information visit https://www.rainierpickinparty.com
