Is two days of great music just not quite enough? We feel you! That’s why we’re hosting a free Kickoff Celebration for Raleigh Wide Open on Thursday evening, Oct. 2. Get things started with intimate sets from three of our lineup bands and a chance to meet and mingle with fellow bluegrass lovers at The Corner at NC State’s Centennial Campus.

Gates will open at 5:30 p.m., with music starting at 6 p.m. The evening will feature three phenomenal bands – Stillhouse Junkies, Tray Wellington Band, and the Barefoot Movement — all with deep ties to Raleigh’s downtown bluegrass festival tradition.

Parking on Centennial Campus is free after 5 p.m., with plenty available near The Corner, a colorful outdoor space located at 941 Main Campus Drive, at the intersection of Main Campus Drive and Research Drive. The Kickoff Celebration will feature food and beer for purchase, but attendees are also welcome to bring their own food, non-alcoholic beverages, and coolers, along with chairs and blankets to enjoy the evening.

ATTENTION PINECONE MEMBERS: We’re hosting a Member Meetup at this event, starting at 5 p.m. Please join us for light snacks, beverages, first chance to buy Raleigh Wide Open merch, and some time to mingle with fellow PineCone members. The Member Meetup is free, but please RSVP here so we can be prepared.

Learn more about The Corner here.