Festival-goers will journey the Blue Ridge Parkway this weekend to experience music, workshops, camping and more at the sold-out FloydFest 12 Rise & Shine.
The festival, located less than three hours from Appalachian State University in Floyd, Va., will take place Thursday afternoon to Sunday evening with headlining musical performances by Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros, Old Crow Medicine Show, The Lumineers and John Butler Trio.
The festival sold out its multi-day and one-day passes more than two weeks ago, According to a press release from Across-the-Way Productions.
“We are ecstatic to reach a sellout this early in the season,” FloydFest co-founder and producer Kris Hodges said. “We feel proud to have been able to reach our loyal fan base and that they trust our progress to meet their standards.”
A few Appalachian students will make the trek to Virginia this weekend to FloydFest 12.
“This is definitely the best local festival of the year,” senior environmental science major Ginny Gills said. “I’m really excited for the bluegrass heavy lineup and the fact that my parents and over 50 of my friends will be enjoying this time with me.”
Junior health promotions major and nine year veteran of FloydFest Matt Sedelmeyer said he was not surprised to see the festival’s tickets sell in such a short period.
“I totally understand how Floyd is sold out,” he said. “When people find out the true nature and phenomenal atmosphere of the festival, they are certain to come back.”
While those who hold tickets for the weekend said they feel very fortunate, the absence of tickets poses a problem for several students.
“It’s awesome that the festival is gaining this reputation, but it is also sad at the same time,” Gills said. “A lot of students and friends our age have trouble committing to a festival far in advance and therefore rely on being able to buy a ticket last minute or at the gate.“
However, some students will attend the festival by volunteering services instead of using purchased tickets.
“I am volunteering pre-festival in return for a four-day pass,” senior sustainable development major Thuan Nguyen said. “It feels great to be a part of putting on the festival while also enjoying the music and workshops, which I am particularly excited about.”
Regardless of ticket circumstances, an air of excitement rises among student attendees.
“I’m so stoked for this year’s FloydFest,” junior appropriate technology major Nick Lingon said. “The fact that everyone is welcoming and the vibes are super clean, family-oriented and friendly makes everything so perfect.”
“I believe this year could be one of the best years for sure,” Sedelmeyer said. “Every year I learn of new music, so I’m excited for not only my favorites, but all the acts.”
For more information on FloydFest 12 Rise & Shine, visit FloydFest.com.
Story: OLIVIA WILKES, Senior Photographer