NORWICH – The Norwich Bluegrass Festival has been a summer staple in the area for more than two decades. This year’s event will take place July 26-28 at the Chenango County Fairgrounds, 168 East Main Street, Norwich.

Attendees will have the ability to purchase either a weekend pass or a day ticket at the gate of the fairgrounds this weekend. A weekend pass is $50 and includes camping throughout the weekend. Friday and Saturday tickets are available at the gate for a $25 fee. Cash or checks are accepted.

According to Danny Stewart, festival promoter, a number of bluegrass enthusiasts spend their summers traveling the nation to various festivals where they are able to camp and enjoy their musical genre of choice. Stewart said he knows there will be attendees coming from Florida, Tennessee, North Carolina, New Jersey and Pennsylvania - in addition to the local area residents who faithfully attend the festival.

Music will begin Friday at noon, with an open mic. Then bluegrass bands from across the nation will take to the stage. Performing ensembles include Smokey Greene, all-female group Sweet Potato Pie, Kevin Richardson and Cuttin’ Edge, and Danny Paisley and The Southern Grass.

“There is some wonderful talent this year,” said Stewart. “It’s a weekend of great music and it’s truly a safe, family friendly festival.”

Stewart offered his description of the genre of bluegrass, stating it is an offset of country, with instruments including guitar, banjo, fiddle and bass.