NORWICH – Organizers of the Norwich Family Bluegrass Festival added a fourth day to this year’s event, hoping more audience members and local musicians will take advantage.

“We added the extra day because we wanted to offer more open-stage time to any musicians and acts that want to get up there and jam,” said festival co-organizer and headliner Mike “Dr. Mike” Tirella, of The Cabin Fever Band. “That’s what Bluegrass festivals are all about; making the audience and the community part of the music.”

More than 1,000 people – many from across Canada and the Northeast – are expected to attend the growing festival, known for its intimate stage setting and laid-back family atmosphere.

The festival runs from Thursday, July 24 through Sunday, July 27, at the Chenango County Fairgrounds. Admission is $50 for an adult four-day ticket. Kids under 16 are free. Daily rates are also available (Thursday $10, Friday $15, Saturday $25, Sunday $10).

Open Stage performance will be on Friday and Saturday. Area musicians and acts that would like to play can call Tirella at (518) 783-3154. Participants are encouraged to bring their instruments.

“A lot of people just come to jam and pick in their own circles or with people they meet,” said Tirella. “Some don’t even come up to see what’s going on on stage.”