In the southern Blue Ridge Mountains, Bear Shadow brings you out from your den to see the ice melt and welcome the warm days with bluegrass and folk. Although it made its debut only in 2021, Bear Shadow is already an unmissable event in the North Carolina music scene. Last year, the lineup included Austin-based rock band Spoon, indie folk band The Head and the Heart (who you might know for their song “No One Let You Down” heard in Zach Braff’s movie Wish I Was Here), and Grammy award winner Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit. This year, J.J. Grey & Mofro and Black Pumas will headline.
While the music takes place in the evening, you can still pack your bag for an adventure in the mountains during the day. The festival partners up with local organizations for fly fishing classes as well as afternoon hikes. And here’s a fun fact: the festival’s name takes inspiration from a unique fall phenomenon that happens from mid-October through early November in Western North Carolina. On sunny days, you can see a giant bear-shaped shadow in the woods. It might not be the right season but keep your eyes open: actual bears could break out from hibernation when they hear the rock tunes of Bear Shadow.
The Specs
- The venue, Windfield Farm, can accommodate approximately 1,000 people a day.
- Single Day General Admission tickets cost $157.50. Weekend General Admission tickets cost $255. Single Day VIP tickets cost $292.50.Weekend VIP tickets cost $510.
- While you are in North Carolina, enjoy the weather driving on the Outer Banks Scenic Byway. Take a look at all the other Fifty Grande’s Best Spring Drives in America. And here‘s our guide to North Carolina.
FAQs
What is the closest airport to Bear Shadow?
The closest airport to Bear Shadow is Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
Is the festival family-friendly?
Yes, kids 10 and under are free.
Is there a shuttle?
Yes, there are complimentary round-trip shuttles from Kelsey-Hutchinson Park and the Highlands Community Center in Highlands to Windfield Farm, from 4:00pm to 11:00pm on Friday and Saturday, and from 11:30am to 6:00pm on Sunday.
What is the lineup?
Black Pumas, J.J. Grey & Mofro, North Mississippi Allstars, Futurebirds, American Aquarium, The Record Company, White Denim, Grace Bowers.
2024 Poster
Playlist
Videos