Long-running Strawberry Music Festival cancels fall bluegrass concerts, event
The organizers of a family-friendly bluegrass festival have cancelled their fall festival, according to an announcement made on the event’s website.
The Strawberry Music Festival is a family-friendly bluegrass music fest held over several days in Grass Valley. The event was originally scheduled for Oct. 15 to Oct. 18 at the Nevada County Fairgrounds.
New festival organizers said online that the cancellation was a “necessary step to come back better than ever” in time for next spring. In their message to fans, they wrote that they “need some time” to improve the festival.
“We are working with the Strawberry Music team to recharge, reinvigorate, and carry on the magic that Strawberry has always been known for,” the organizers wrote. “We want to bring you the best possible festival experience moving forward.”
The new organizers did not respond to a request for comment from The Sacramento Bee.
In their cancellation announcement, the organizers referenced the death of Charlie Cran, the festival’s founder, and the need to keep his “vision and legacy alive.” Cran died Nov. 18 of heart failure, according to the website. The new organizers wrote that they are family members of Cran.
The event got its start in 1982 and features music, food vendors, arts and crafts, and workshops. For decades, the festival was held near Yosemite National Park until it relocated to the Nevada County Fairgrounds.
Over the years performers have included the Thunder Mountain Boys, folk singer and songwriter David Wilcox, and repeat guest and American music legend John Prine.
For those who already purchased tickets, the Strawberry Music Festival is offering two options: by completing an online form festival-goers can rollover tickets for use in the spring of 2027 or request a full refund.
This story was originally published June 17, 2026 at 8:06 PM.
