The Industrial Strength Bluegrass Festival is set to take over the Greene County Fairgrounds this summer, offering a vibrant weekend filled with bluegrass and roots music. Running from July 17-19, the festival aims to fill the gap left by other regional bluegrass festivals, bringing together music lovers and performers for an unforgettable celebration of bluegrass culture.
This year’s event boasts an impressive lineup of headliners, including Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, The Grascals, The Malpass Brothers, and Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers, the host band. Other performances will include Junior Sisk, The Larry Stephenson Band, Fast Track, Kenny & Amanda Smith, and more. The three-day festival promises to showcase the best of bluegrass, with seven acts performing each day, from 1 p.m. until 10 p.m.
One of the key features of this festival is its emphasis on audience participation and the bluegrass community spirit. Over 50% of bluegrass fans own an instrument, and the festival encourages them to join in the fun by bringing their mandolins, banjos, and guitars. After each evening’s performances, campground-wide jam sessions will bring festival-goers together for spontaneous, music-filled gatherings until the early hours.
The Industrial Strength Bluegrass Festival has been a staple of bluegrass music in Ohio since its inception in 2003, growing in recognition and popularity over the years. The event was rebranded in 2021, taking on the Industrial Strength name, inspired by a popular bluegrass album from Southwestern Ohio. In 2022 and again in 2024, the festival was awarded Bluegrass Event of the Year by the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA), solidifying its place in the bluegrass community.
This summer’s event will also feature regional acts from Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana, alongside the main performances. Additionally, a free guitar workshop led by award-winning guitarists Kenny Smith and Clay Hess will kick off each day at noon, offering valuable learning opportunities for budding musicians.
With free admission for children aged 16 and under and discounted tickets for those 17-25 years old, the festival is designed to be accessible for all ages. RV and primitive camping options are available, allowing attendees to immerse themselves fully in the bluegrass experience. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer, the Industrial Strength Bluegrass Festival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of music, community, and the rich tradition of bluegrass.