The Kruger Brothers

The Shepherd Farm in North Wilkesboro, NC.was transformed this past weekend into the grounds for the fifth annual “Carolina in the Fall’ festival sponsored by The Kruger Brothers.

The farm was a beehive of activity as crews set up tents for the Oct. 19-20 event.

“It is always exciting to see the tents go up, because that means that festival time is quickly approaching,” noted Brenda Shepherd, festival director. The main stage is newly constructed with a tent covering the performance area. Tents were also placed for Petey’s Place Children’s Area, Jammin’ Tent, vendors and food vendors.The Carolina in the Fall Festival will continue with a new format introduced at the 2006 festival. The format included an extremely fluid stage schedule, with The Kruger Brothers performing with a diverse group of talented musician friends throughout the festival.

Based on the response from musicians and attendees, the 2007 schedule will reflect the same “Celebration” format and atmosphere. The basic premise of the very first festival was to expand the congenial atmosphere of the many nights that The Kruger Brothers played music and held impromptu jams in the basement of the Shepherd Home. In keeping with that initial festival goal, the festival schedule will, once again, be more relaxed and fluid this year.

Tut Taylor

The Kruger Brothers will feature friends such as Wayne Henderson, Maynard Holbrook, Clint Howard, Charles Welch, Lodi van Vlodrop, Andy Owens, Steve Kilby, Eric Ellis, Tut Taylor, and The Cockman Family. Spirit Fiddle and The Johnson Family (both favorites of the Shepherds) will also perform. There is no “backstage area” and The Kruger Brothers will enjoy visiting with fans, friends, and family and enjoying the “Celebration” atmosphere during stage breaks.

Friday night, Producer’s Night in Honor of Robert Shepherd, was well-received last year and will continue in 2007 as a concert length performance by The Kruger Brothers. BackPorch Bluegrass, a local group influenced by The Kruger Brothers and favorites of The Shepherd Family will perform on Friday night as well.

On Friday, Oct. 19, the gates open at 5 p.m. and the music starts at 6 p.m.

On Saturday, the gates open at 10:30 a.m.,with the Kruger Brothers Workshop starting at 11:30 a.m. and the festival schedule beginning at 1 p.m.

Tickets for Friday are $15 in advance and $20 at the gate. Tickets for Saturday are $20 in advance and $25 at the gate. Tickets may be purchased by calling 336-667-5344. Additional information is available on the festival website (www.CarolinaInTheFall.com).