Joining nearly every other music festival of 2020, the internationally renowned RockyGrass is canceled.
What would have been the 48th annual event at Planet Bluegrass in Lyons was slated for this weekend. But Boulder’s community radio station KGNU is helping the traditional bluegrass festival live on through its airwaves Friday through Sunday. RockyGrass Radio: Pickin’ Through the Years will feature some of the festival’s renowned performances as well as a special live-streaming event. KGNU has broadcasted live from RockyGrass since 2008. Tune in to KGNU at 88.5 FM or 1930 AM from 11 a.m. to noon Friday, 9 a.m. to noon and 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, or listen online from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday. Users can visit afterfm.com/rocky.grass to join the bluegrass party.
The festival, along with it camping slots, typically sells out. Camping was always a big draw for music lovers who had an option to pitch a tent on the scenic grounds of the nearly 20-acre outdoor venue. The family-friendly event, typically held at the end of July, sits along the St. Vrain River and brings in live tunes of legendary pickers. From local icons like Hot Rize, Charles Sawtelle, Yonder Mountain String Band, Mollie O’Brien and David Grisman to nationally famed bands like Punch Brothers, Sam Bush, Jeff Austin, Sarah Jarosz, Old Crow Medicine Show and Alison Krauss, RockyGrass’ history of hosting star pickers dates back to 1973.
Planet Bluegrass’ website reads:
“Greetings Festivarians! The time has come to say it out loud — the fields of Planet Bluegrass will lie fallow for the 2020 Festival Season. Obvious and unbelievable. Oh, how we will miss you. Oh, how we’ll miss ourselves when we’re with you!”
If you go
What: RockyGrass Radio: Pickin’ Through the Years
When: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday
Where: Stream at afterfm.com/rocky.grass
Cost: Free, but listeners can virtually tip or become a member at give.kgnu.org/tip-jar
Info: kgnu.org
