Two Jam-Packed Days

Written By: Marlene Osteen | Issue: April 2024

Get ready for an unforgettable weekend on May 11-12 as the Bear Shadow Music Festival returns to Scaly Mountain’s Winfield Farms for its annual spring celebration.

For the fourth year, fans will come from nearby and far away to touch the music and the musicians, to relish the cool air and beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Over its two jam-packed days, festivalgoers will be treated to a lineup that is arguably the richest and most diverse in the region, featuring an eclectic mix of Blues, Bluegrass, Country, Rock, and Americana acts.

Headliners JJ Grey & Mofro will take the stage on Saturday, followed by the Black Pumas on Sunday. In between, audiences will discover a wealth of rising talent, including Futurebirds, American Aquarium, North Mississippi Allstars, The Record Company, White Denim, and Grace Bowers.

American music journalist and CEO of Jrodconcerts Media, Jamie Rodriguez, praises Bear Shadow Music Festival for its meticulous attention to detail, top-notch amenities, and exceptional musical talent.

“Bear Shadow has a knack for getting an incredible mix of talent; artists on the rise, current hit makers and icons,” he says, highlighting Grace Bowers, a 17-year-old prodigy from Nashville, as a “once in a generation kind of talent,” and American Aquarium for their compelling blend of rock ‘n roll and profound songwriting.

Rodriguez also applauds headliner Black Pumas for their breathtaking arrival on the national music scene, “one of the most breathtaking debut albums in recent years.”

And beyond the talent, what sets Bear Shadow apart from other festivals is its commitment to providing ample stage time for artists, with 1-hour and 15-minute sets, allowing performers to truly connect with their audience.

But the festival isn’t just about who’s headlining; it’s a celebration of music, camaraderie, and the locale. Beyond the stage lights, there’s plenty of good food and beverages to be had – top notch local food trucks, restaurants, breweries, and distilleries.

At the SoBear Tent, non-alcoholic beverages are offered – Sierra Nevada, mocktails, kombuchas and coffee company. And, unlike other festivals, beverages are included in your ticket price. You can work off your indulgence roaming the expanse of Winfield Farm’s festival ground and browse retailers – offering everything from artisan wares to mountain wear.

Beyond music and delicious food and drinks, the money spent on your tickets goes toward a list of good causes.

Bear Shadow has a history of giving back to the community.  Between 2021 and 2023, Bear Shadow has donated $50,000 to local organizations including the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, Highlands Biological Foundation, The Resource Institute and the Sky Valley-Scaly Mountain Fire & Rescue. In 2024, both the festival and the owners of Winfield Farm will again donate to Sky Valley-Scaly Mountain Fire & Rescue.