Balsam Range
There is something timeless about bluegrass in the mountains with notes rising into cool evening air, harmonies echoing against ridgelines, and melodies that feel both rooted and alive. At the Highlands Performing Arts Center, that spirit takes center stage in the 2026 concert season, where bluegrass isn’t just a genre, it’s a celebration of place.
This year’s lineup highlights both the heritage and evolution of this distinctly Appalachian sound. The season opens on May 26 with Balsam Range, a group whose roots run deep in Western North Carolina. Known for their rich harmonies and masterful musicianship, they bring an authenticity that feels right at home in Highlands. Their performance sets the tone for a season grounded in tradition and storytelling.
Later in the season on October 30, Damn Tall Buildings offers a fresh take on bluegrass. Blending elements of folk, blues, and jazz, their sound is energetic, inventive, and undeniably engaging. It’s a reminder that while bluegrass honors its past, it continues to grow and evolve with each new generation of artists.
Damn Tall Buildings
Additional performances, including Nu-Blu on September 26, round out a dynamic lineup that celebrates both classic and contemporary interpretations of the genre. Together, these artists reflect the richness of Appalachian music and the creative spirit that keeps it moving forward.
What makes bluegrass at the PAC especially meaningful is not just the caliber of talent, but the setting itself. In Highlands, this music feels at home. It echoes the history of the region and the enduring connection between community and culture. Each concert becomes more than a performance. It’s a shared experience that brings people together through rhythm, memory, and sound.
As the 2026 season unfolds, the PAC invites audiences to experience bluegrass. From the driving energy of a banjo to the soulful cry of a fiddle, these concerts promise moments that linger long after the final note. Tickers on sale now at highlandsperformingarts.com.
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