The Walnut Valley Festival is one of the premier events in the midwest. Featuring bluegrass music, the festival is referred to by locals simply as “Bluegrass”. While bluegrass music may be the focus, other acoustic styles are represented as well. More than just the music, attendees come from every state in the country and from many foreign countries for the culture that is the Walnut Valley Festival. Take time to roam through the elaborate campsites in the Pecan Grove (some sites inhabited for a month before the festival and month after!). Take part (or just watch) the “land rush” tradition to secure a campsite before the event. In addition to music on the four main stages, enjoy amateur music throughout the campgrounds and on unofficial stages throughout the event.
The festival is held on the Wednesday through Sunday that includes the third Saturday of September. The first festival was held in September 1972. Besides the world-class paid performers, Winfield is known for its instrumental contests. The headline contest is the National Flat-pick Guitar Championship.
