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As Bluegrass organizers track Hurricane Ian: 'There will be music this weekend' in Raleigh
RALEIGH, N.C. — For the second time in its history in Raleigh, the International Bluegrass Music Association’s World of Bluegrass could be affected by a hurricane.
Hurricane Ian is expected to impact Florida Wednesday and not affect North Carolina until late this week. Central and eastern N.C. is expected to see several inches of rainfall, flooding and some isolated tornados from Ian’s remnants once the storm breaks apart and moves north.
The five-day bluegrass event kicks off Tuesday with the IBMA Business Conference featuring networking events and professional sessions. On Tuesday night, the Bluegrass Ramble brings artist showcases to venues throughout downtown. Tickets are required for both events.
On Thursday, the 33rd Annual IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards will be held at the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts. Billy Strings, Del McCoury Band and Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway are among the nominees vying for “Entertainer of the Year” at this year’s event. Tickets are on sale for the awards.
The week will culminate on Friday and Saturday with IBMA Bluegrass LIVE!, which includes ticketed and free main stage performances at Red Hat Amphitheater and on five additional free StreetFest Stages throughout downtown. Red Hat Amphitheater shows will begin daily at 5 p.m. and continue to 11 p.m.
Also on Friday and Saturday, entrance is free into the exhibit hall at the Raleigh Convention Center. The hall will have the latest vendors, gear, services and products.
If Hurricane Ian causes changes to IBMA Bluegrass Live!, it would be the second time a storm has caused the event to relocate indoors. In 2015, the IBMA board moved the outdoor street festival and Red Hat Amphitheater shows into the convention center due to Hurricane Joaquin.
IBMA executive producer Pat Morris and PineCone executive producer and festival producer David Brower released a statement Monday assuring fans that the music will go on.
“IBMA Bluegrass Live! powered by PNC will take place, and there will be music this weekend in downtown Raleigh. Event organizers are actively monitoring the weather situation and are prepared to pivot to help ensure the safety and comfort of event attendees,” organizers said. “We have navigated inclement weather in previous years; in 2015, we moved the music inside to the Raleigh Convention Center due to Hurricane Joaquin, and the event was a big success with attendees and artists alike. We are prepared to make necessary changes for this weekend’s festival and will share updates as we have them.”