Bear Shadow Music Festival takes place May 29-31, 2026 in Highlands, North Carolina, showcasing a diverse lineup of country, Americana, blues, soul, and rock music. Headliners include Grammy-winning soul legend Mavis Staples, New Orleans funk powerhouse Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, and rising country star Charley Crockett alongside acclaimed Americana artist Margo Price. The festival features 14 American artists spanning traditional and contemporary sounds, with notable performers including bluegrass innovators The Infamous Stringdusters, Louisiana soul artist Marc Broussard, and emerging talents like Pony Bradshaw. This Memorial Day weekend celebration offers an authentic blend of American roots music across multiple genres in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Bear Shadow Music Festival is a three-day standalone music festival.