Boonerang 2026

FRIDAY - SUNDAY

JUNE 19 - 21, 2026

Welcome to Boonerang, everyone! To those coming back, we are so glad to see you return in true Boonerang fashion. To those new to the festival, you are in for a Boone-town treat. This year marks the fifth annual Boonerang Music & Arts Festival, and we have a fabulous weekend in store.

Lots of exciting things have occurred since last year’s festival, including the premiere of a Boonerang documentary (that you can see at the App Theatre festival weekend), the use of a new App (created by our amazing volunteer coordinator, Dona Dowlan, and inspired by her work with the festival), and our Boone’s Got Talent and Boonerang Battle of the Bands events (winners and participants from both will be performing festival weekend). Proceeds from last year’s event funded nearly $20,000 to local non-profits, in addition to supporting local arts educators directly through the Watauga Arts Council and Watauga Education Foundation grant programs.

We have added a roots-music performance space at the Jones House to the Friday night festivities, a local dance group showcase to the Dance Lot at Wild Craft Eatery on Saturday, and are bringing back our Boonerang International celebration on Sunday. Pop-up art exhibitions; improv theatre; square dancing; roving mariachi, at least one parade, and – of course – the silent disco, are all on the schedule, and much, much more. The weekend is packed, and you are in for a treat.

This event could not happen without the incredible support from the Town of Boone; the many sponsors, partners, and non-profits who participate; festival staff and more than 100 volunteers; our incredible Zero Waste team (yay for “trash fairies”); the talented artists, musicians, and creators; the countless hours of prep from countless people; and of course, YOU, the festival-goer.

Mark Freed

Five years in, BOONERANG KEEPS GETTING BETTER

BY ZACH COLBURN

As the 2026 Boonerang Music & Arts Festival prepares for its fifth edition, it continues to get better with each passing year.

Since its premiere in June 2022, the weekend music festival has continued to grow in both community popularity and duration.

The first festival began as a Friday night and all-day Saturday event — with one small music session that Thursday — tied in as one of the many events that took place as part of Boone 150, the town’s Sesquicentennial Celebration marking 150 years since Boone was incorporated.

“It’s really a homecoming — we hope everybody will Boonerang,” Mark Freed, director of cultural resources for the Town of Boone, said at the time. “Everyone who’s spent some time in Boone and has gone away loves to Boonerang back and spend some time in the High Country, and there’s no better time than the beginning of summer.”

During that first year, two stages anchored the festival. The South Depot Stage, located near the intersection of

South Depot and Rivers streets, featured performances by Soul Benefactor and the Junaluska Gospel Choir, Chalwa, Town Mountain and Acoustic Syndicate.

The North Depot Stage, located at the Lost Province parking lot at 130 N. Depot St., featured the King Bees, Naked Gods and Melissa Reaves, followed by two silent disco sessions.

Several other areas across downtown Boone offered live community music, with four stages in all, as well as the Kids Zone at the Watauga Public Library, featuring music from Big Bang Boom.

The inaugural festival drew around 6,000 attendees, with more than 4,000 ID checks, Freed said in a June 2022 interview. He credited the idea for the festival to a collaboration with other community music lovers and producers of bands with connections to Boone and Watauga County, saying the spark came from watching national recording artist Luke Combs perform at App State the previous fall.

The 2023 edition saw considerable expansion, with the festival becoming a three-day event and including a celebration of the legendary Doc

Watson at the Appalachian Theatre that Thursday.

Of the 20 musical acts confirmed, all of them, including the Asheville-based Yo Mama’s Big Fat Booty Band, had a connection to Boone.

This edition introduced the Boonerang Story Slam, which allowed interested parties to take the stage at the Appalachian Theatre and share short stories about coming home, with select

BOONERANG 2026 ART PRINT

This year’s Boonerang 2026 art print was created by local artist Allyson Murphy. She paints colorful, illustrative watercolors that celebrate the High Country. Murphy loves to connect with the Boone community through art by working with local organizations. For more information on Murphy, visit www.highcountryarts.org/listing/allyson-murphy650b270d33c40.html. “We’re grateful to work with real, living-and-breathing, local artists to come up with designs that so perfectly capture that Boonerang vibe,” Boonerang stated. You can stop by the festival merch store to find artwork printed on T-shirts, posters and stickers courtesy of KindDesigns Printing.

THANK YOU TO OUR PRESENTING SPONSORS

A BOONERANG HIMSELF, local filmmaker documents the festival’s role in Helene recovery

BY ZACH COLBURN

When Hurricane Helene struck the High Country in September 2024, Bradley Pearce was living in Wilmington — but his heart was still in Boone. That concern sparked an idea that became a documentary.

Art, music, culture. All three are at the heart of Boone and Boonerang, and they are one of the things that drove Pearce to create “Boonerang: Returning to the High Country.”

A Multimedia Producer at nearby Lees-McRae College, Pearce is a fellow Boonerang himself. He and his wife both attended App State before leaving the area in December 2007. Pearce lived in Wilmington for more than a decade but moved back in 2025 and currently resides in Foscoe.

“When we first heard about there being a festival called ‘Boonerang,’ we thought it was amazing because we had heard that term plenty and had ‘Boonerang-ed’ back up for brief visits for years,” said Pearce. “We have always been involved in local arts and music scenes wherever we have lived, so that component of the festival

was very appealing to us as well. Plain and simple, we felt this festival was designed for us, and it always happens right around our wedding anniversary.”

Pearce first connected with Boonerang during the 2023 festival, shooting photos for fun. He got in touch with the Jones House crew and organizers Mark Freed, Brad Farthing, and Brandon Holder, and it was officially announced that he would start filming and photographing the festival.

But his deeper inspiration came in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

“Upon checking in on the Jones House crew after Helene struck the region, it lit a spark in me to see if there was something I could do from afar. I brought up the idea of documenting the planning of the 2025 festival and the importance it held for a community that had been devastated by a natural disaster,” Pearce said. “The Jones House folks were really into it, so I started creating an outline and tons of plans for production. This led me to bring a small crew of Wilmington production pals to Boone to start interviewing and following around local community members

involved with the festival in many different ways. We received no monetary sponsorship, but the community did come together to feed and house me and my crew while we were here for production.”

Editing the film took many months. A year after production began, they held a viewing at the Appalachian Theatre in February 2025. The documentary will screen again at the Appalachian Theatre at 11:30 a.m. on June 20.

“We had an amazing premiere night, and we’re excited to get more eyes on it. It is also submitted to multiple film festivals and we are waiting to hear back from them,” Pearce said.

For more information on the documentary, visit sites.google.com/view/ boonerangfilm.

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favorites awarded fun prizes.

A new venue, called the “dance lot,” opened and allowed participants to dance with multiple bands performing at the Wild Craft Eatery. Right next to it, in the lot of Boone Bagelry, the inaugural Boonerang International Festival was held, showcasing the creativity and diversity that immigrants bring to the Boone community. The Watauga Democrat called it “the festival within the festival.”

With all the expansion and additions, an estimated 10,000 people attended that weekend, enjoying seven live music stages and more than 80 vendors.

Expansion remained synonymous with Boonerang in 2024, as the festival kicked off with what has become a fan favorite — Boone’s Got Talent at the Appalachian Theatre — opening four days of Boonerang.

Last year’s Boonerang brought another new feature — Battle of the Bands. The inaugural edition included four showcases prior to the June festival,

with the winners invited to perform at the festival.

Along with the music and the Boonerang International Festival, the culinary scene continued to be a popular attraction, with numerous food trucks offering food, dessert and drink options.

Now in its fifth year, Boonerang returns June 19-21 with a packed lineup and a schedule that reflects how much the festival has grown since that first weekend in 2022.

This year’s Battle of the Bands took

place across two events, while Boone’s Got Talent took place in February so it wouldn’t get lost in the shuffle of a busy weekend.

The Boonerang International Festival returns Sunday, June 21, closing out the weekend with live music, cultural exhibits and a parade through downtown Boone.

From 6,000 attendees and four stages to more than 10,000 people and a festival that spans days, cultures and generations — Boonerang has become exactly what its name always promised.

BOONERANG’S ‘TRASH FAIRIES’ lead the push for a zero waste festival

BY LORELEI ROBERTS

Boonerang Festival-goers may notice fairy-winged volunteers roaming the grounds as part of a growing zero-waste effort, making the festival a model for sustainability in the High Country.

The festival has developed its sustainability practices over the years, partnering with Appalachian State University’s Zero Waste crew to showcase what a sustainably minded community looks like in action.

“Being a part of a community that cares, leading by example as a community and knowing that we can showcase that, it’s probably my favorite part,” App State Sustainability Program Director Jennifer Maxwell said.

The festival will continue its zero-waste effort in collaboration with Appalachian State University’s Zero Waste crew, the Town of Boone, Watauga County, Republic Services and Green for Life.

Maxwell said the collaboration with Boonerang raises residents’ awareness of sustainability and supports the long-term vision of a more streamlined, unified

waste management system across the High Country.

“One of the ways that we can really collaborate is around education and making sure that we’re making it very clear to people how to properly manage their waste here,” Maxwell said. “We have students living on campus, and the recycling might look a little different than when they move into town, and they have curbside, or if they’re out in the county, and they have to use a convenience center.”

GROWING THE SUSTAINABILITY EFFORT

Boonerang has continued to grow its sustainability efforts throughout the years. One example using multi-use infinitely recyclable aluminum cups for all festival alcohol pours. Vendors are also encouraged to use recyclable or compostable materials.

Maxwell said they had discussed possibly subsidizing the cost difference for vendors to use only recyclable materials, but said most already use sustainable packaging.

Volunteers will sort through trash, separating it into compost, recycling, and trash. Republic Services handles recycling, while Watauga County handles trash.

App State uses compost in the campus gardens and landscape, at the Sustainable Development Teaching Farm, or donates it to community gardens.

The festival is also expanding its use of alternative energy sources, including solar batteries that power certain speakers, equipment, and point-of-sale stations.

TRASH FAIRIES

For a second year, attendees will see Trash Fairies roaming the festival. App State Sustainable Development staff and students create costumes from upcycled and recycled materials, blending art and creative expression into the sustainability initiative.

“We’ve definitely talked about how to bring more art into this initiative, and the Trash Fairies just really went along with that,” Maxwell said. “It was a really cool project for them because they made them out of upcycled materials, and it’s a really great, engaging way to get people to do the right thing.”

Trash Fairies make waste education

engaging by displaying sorted recyclables as a visual representation of the festival’s waste impact.

STATION SETUP

The sustainability team maps out the festival grounds and determines the best locations for trash stations, usually near vendors and in high-traffic areas. Stations are set up on Friday and stay in place through Sunday.

Trash Fairies will collect trash throughout the festival and bring it to the sorting station near Jimmy Smith Park, where they will separate it into trash, recycling, and compost.

“The county drops off the dumpster for trash, we set up containers for compost, we also have a roll off there provided by Republic for the recycling, which is all staged in that little lot next to Jimmy Smith Park, and we set up tables in Jimmy Smith Park,” Maxwell said.

Last year, the group sorted:

• 980 lbs. of recycling

• 740 lbs. of compost

• 1,400 lbs. of trash

That adds up to a 55% diversion rate — meaning more than 1,700 lbs. of material was kept out of the waste stream entirely.

HOW BOONERANG GIVES BACK TO BOONE

BY ZACH COLBURN

After last year’s festival, Boonerang distributed nearly $20,000 to local arts programs and nonprofits — a reflection, organizers say, of what the festival is really about.

The term Boonerang refers to someone who spends time in Boone, leaves, and eventually returns. It inspired the Boonerang Music and Arts Festival, now in its fifth year, and according to Volunteer Coordinator Dona Dowlan, it’s the people who make the festival what it is.

“I don’t think I’ve ever been a part of a project where nearly 200 people come out and happily work for free so their community can enjoy a wonderful threeday free festival,” said Dowlan. “That gift of time speaks volumes about how important the community is to its members. I think

Boonerang has become somewhat of a homecoming event as well, which creates a great opportunity for people to reconnect.”

Volunteers help with all aspects of Boonerang — staffing information tables, running the Silent Disco, and handling cleanup — helping festival-goers enjoy themselves throughout the event.

Dowlan credits much of the festival’s success to Director of Cultural Resources and Boonerang organizer Mark Freed and his team at the Jones House.

“I think it’s a huge impact. I think it’s a significant gift to the community. Mark Freed and his group at the Jones House are not volunteering their time per se, but they are working like crazy people; every year, the shifts that are not able to be filled always end up being those later in the evening shifts. Those cleanup shifts after all of it’s done and it’s all over. And

“We boosted the Inspire Educators Fund housed at the Arts Council,” Freed told the Boone Town Council after last year’s festival. “It’s housed at the Arts Council, and any of our local public school music, theater, fine arts, or dance instructors can apply for this money through a very easy application.”

the people that fall on it are that tiny little team of people at the Jones House year after year,” said Dowlan. “It is a true gift to the community to offer this, and everybody comes, and they enjoy it, and it’s wonderful.”

The festival’s community impact goes beyond volunteer hours.

After the 2025 festival, through its partnership with the Watauga Arts Council, Boonerang distributed $19,663, including $6,000 for the Inspire Educators Fund to support local arts teachers.

An additional nearly $9,000 went to nonprofit partners including the ASU Coaching Club, Back 2 School Fest, Blue Ridge Conservancy, Children’s Council, Daniel Boone Native Gardens, F.A.R.M. Café, Harmony Lanes, Legal Aid of Boone, Southern Appalachian Historical Association, and WAMY.

The festival’s reach extends beyond grants. In addition to the community support, Dowlan pointed to the economic boost for downtown Boone businesses, primarily on King Street, that also benefit from the festival.

“With an influx of nearly 10,000 people coming into downtown and buying and spending, there’s an economic improvement for at least a handful of businesses in town,” Dowlan said.

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THE MAGIC BEHIND BOONERANG

Nearly 200 volunteers and one very busy coordinator

BY LORELEI ROBERTS

Boone’s free music and arts festival is celebrating its fifth year, with an increasing need for volunteers to help with the festival as Boonerang’s popularity grows.

The term “boonerang” has been used by the locals to describe a common occurrence: people who spend time in Boone leave but eventually return. The festival showcases musicians and artists with roots throughout the High Country; the weekend-long festival needs volunteers to run smoothly.

Going from a two-day festival to four days and now three, Boonerang has expanded to include afterparties, a whole day for Boonerang International (Sunday), and a zero-waste Sustainability effort led by trash fairies.

What has expanded the most at the festival is the number of volunteers needed to put it together, run it safely for three days, and clean up.

When the Town of Boone held the first Boonerang, Volunteer Coordinator Dona Dowlan said she remembers the numbers clearly.

“We had 67 volunteers then; the same event now needs 187 volunteers,” Dowlan said.

From February to the last day of the festival, Dowlan manages recruitment, organization and support for every volunteer after learning that it takes more volunteers and supervisors to host a festival safely than what they had at the first one.

“It didn’t go perfectly, but it went well enough,” Dowlan said. “That’s how we learned we needed more people throughout the festival.”

In the first year, the volunteer headquarters was in a building next to the courthouse on the lower level, which made it difficult for volunteers to ask for help or a break during the festival. Today,

Boonerang volunteers get multiple perks, including an exclusive T-shirt and invitations to pre- and post-festival volunteer events with food, drinks and giveaways.

the headquarters is located in the heart of Downtown, at the Mast General Store.

The store will clear out its merchandise to make space for volunteers to stop in for food, a break, reassignment or simply a moment to regroup.

“That was a huge improvement from year one to subsequent years, just to be closer to the action helped so much,” Dowlan said.

Returning volunteers have become the backbone of the program; their familiarity with the program creates a sense of continuity that no training manual can replicate.

“We have a lot of wonderful returning volunteers that come year after year and help us over and over again, and they are connected in a way to the entire festival. Their free labor generates revenue for the town and helps to bring the community together,” Dowlan said. “They are instrumental in this event happening, for caring enough to come and give us their time to create a magical experience for a ton of people.

The evolution of Boonerang’s volunteer program is about a community using trial and error to create the foundation that supports the festival each year.

Those interested in volunteering can visit www.boonerangfest.com/volunteer.

YOUR GUIDE TO FESTIVAL VENDORS

Don’t forget to bring your wallet as Boonerang’s vendor lineup has many items that are worth taking home. From handthrown ceramics and natural dyes to house plants and homemade candles, local makers and small businesses fill both the

SOUTH DEPOT

ARTISTS/MAKERS (FRIDAY & SATURDAY)

• Allyson Murphy Art

• Boone Barndog

• Sweet Carolina Soap

• Melissa Schepp Creations

• Curated by wild

• Earthen.Flame.Designs & Folklore

• The Source

• Dead Meme Press

• Plant Bustique

South and North Depot all weekend long. The following are the 2026 festival vendors at each location and each day.

To make it even, you can add “Check out www.boonerangfest.com for updated information.

• Kattagast Jewelry

• Jess Dixon Designs

• Rachael Salmon Photography

• NoodleCakes

• Gold Dust Creative

• Captures by Dezi

• Judas Powell Ceramics

• Upcycled Everything

• Stony Fork Dyes

• Brown Paper Bling

• Madelyn Foskey Art

• Solita Designs

There’s something for everyone from the many great Boonerang vendors.

• The Pearled Squirrel

• Sugar & Steel

• Creative Compulsion

• Waning Moon Graphique

• Periwinkle Arts

• La Monarca Mexican Store

• Hammock Ceramic

• Zosh Gift Shop

• Attagirl Boutique

• Davis Dyes

• Tree of Life Designs

• Old North Candle Co

• Mountain Time Creations

• Integral Disc Dyes

• GALA Crafts

• Willow Hollow Atelier

• Designs by Tris

• Allen Creative

• Sour Bead Co

• Adam Dehus Art

• Ginny’s Custom Creations

• Aru Paper Co

• Emma Jayne Embroidery

• BeeSymmetry Designs

• Indigo Roots Textiles

• Talis Jones

• Forested way

• Food (Friday & Saturday)

• Two Dogs On the Run

• That’s a Wrap

• Island Noodles

• Valencia Flavors

• Little Wing Ice Cream

• Ambrosia Kafe & Dessertery

• Nectar of the Vine

NONPROFITS (SATURDAY ONLY)

• Watauga Arts Council

• Community Mental Health ProjectChill tent

• Partners Canines! - Dog Water Station

• Watauga Humane Society

JONES HOUSE

• Old Beech Mountain Farms

FOOD/BEVERAGE (FRIDAY & SATURDAY)

• Taqueria La Monarca

• The Cardinal Burger Wagon

• Homestead Recovery Wheels of Change

• Walkin’ Waffles

• Ben & Jerry’s

• Sober Sojourn

• Layers of Love

• Lemon Lips Lemonade

• Raleigh Popsicle Co

NONPROFITS

• EDGE Nonprofit

• Mountain True

NONPROFITS

• Watauga County Heritage Museum

• Watauga County Historical Society

• Junaluska Heritage Association

• Cove Creek Heritage Association

• Blue Ridge Fiber Guild

• Friends of the Library

Food/Beverage (Friday & Saturday)

• The DogFather

• Boy Scouts - Kettle Corn

KIDS ZONE AT THE WATAUGA LIBRARY (SATURDAY ONLY)

• Watauga County Public Library

• Ayla the Dream Fairy

Neighborhood-style living featuring comfortable, casual suites at a great value. Our warm, inviting staff are available 24/7 and will make you feel right at home.

• Carolina Daze Festival

SERVICES

• Info & Water Tent

• Boone Drug - First Aid Tent

• Watauga Democrat - Festival Guides

NORTH DEPOT

ARTISTS/MAKERS (SATURDAY ONLY)

• Seed & Sow Design Co / Morning Wool

• Clay Town Pottery

• Future Relic Designs

• River Way Designs

• Becca Childress Creative

• Casting Bread

• Hope Center

• Children’s Playhouse

• Foster Connection

• Mountain Pathways

• Children’s Council

• High Country Association of Realtors

• Carolina Bird Club

• Boy Scouts - Gaga Ball

• Little Wing Ice Cream

VINTAGE MARKET AT BOONE BAGELRY (SATURDAY ONLY)

• Anna Banana’s

• Thrift Smith Vintage

BOONERANG’S BANDS

A great lineup for all kinds of music lovers

BY MOSS BRENNAN

For the last five years, organizers have brought great bands with ties to Boone and the surrounding area for the annual Boonerang Music and Arts Festival.

With a full schedule of great music, it may be hard to pick and choose who you want to see. Check out the information below on each band, and also visit a curated Spotify playlist with a few songs from nearly every band. Check the playlist out at tinyurl.com/4u2w58f9.

The following are the bands scheduled to play at the main stages:

BANDS

DENIM & PLAID

Denim & Plaid is an on-the-rise band of fresh, young faces playing a high-energy and hard-driving style of bluegrass. Don’t

be fooled by this band’s youth – each member is a talented instrumentalist in their own right, and they have collectively racked up numerous awards on the competition circuit. While staying true to the traditional roots of bluegrass, Denim & Plaid offers a fresh yet wholesome take on the genre, offering a glimpse of a thriving future for bluegrass music.

DULCI

Over the better part of two decades, Dulci Ellenberger (or simply Dulci) has become a fixture – better, a phenomenon – in the Western NC music scene. She has been a part of several popular regional bands – Holy Ghost Tent Revival, Fwuit, and Dr. Dog, to name a few – but she’s no mere musical journeywoman. She is a persistent and positive force to be reckoned with as an artist and musician. Dulci brings feel-

Melissa Reaves is returning to the 2026 Boonerang Music and Arts Festival.

good music at its finest. With a just-right blend of pop, folk, and soul, she plays a mix of thoughtful originals and dressedup covers that elicit a response from her audience.

ECO SPACESHIP

Winner of the round 2 Boonerang Battle

BY LUKE

of the Bands, Eco Spaceship has a distinct funk edge that promises to be a perfect fit for the festival stage.

ELORA DASH

While she was a student at App State,

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HORN IN THE WEST

Escape to thepeaceful beau ty of ourChristmas treefarm, whererows of Fraser firs stretchacross themountainsand the world seemstoslowdown forawhile.Wakeupto cool mountain air, birdsong drifting throughthe tree s, and thequiet stillnessofthe farm.Spend your evenings wandering through thetree fields as thesun sets behind themountains, then end thenightbeneath thestars beside thepond.Here, life is simpler, slower,and filled with thekindofpeaceyou don’t realize you’ ve been missing.

D CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

Hopkins Kinlaw, joined by a diverse cast of skilled musicians, have created a sound that is worthy of the grandest symphony arena or a packed theater, but equally suited to a quaint lounge or a front porch pickin’ session. Or better yet, a Friday night festival atmosphere on the Jones House lawn. This group is certainly no stranger to the Jones House or Boone, with frequent shows in the area over the years and even past members of The Current that call Boone home.

HAYLEY KING TRIO

Elora Dash played her first show right here in Boone – that was almost eight years ago, when the magic started. In a couple of short years, she made her mark on this town, showcasing her soulful vocals – a blend of powerhouse notes, effortless runs, dreamy melodies, and even the occasional elusive whistle note. Elora Dash is lighting up the music scene in the NC Triangle (and even touring internationally), backed by a high-caliber group of musicians with their eclectic neo-soul and R&B sound.

FERN HILL

Made up of sisters Arwen and Lorien Cockman, Fern Hill performs a heartfelt blend of Appalachian, Celtic, and Western sounds. The band was the first round winner of the Boonerang Battle of the Bands.

FIRESIDE COLLECTIVE

At the age of 7, Hayley King picked up the violin, and by the time she was 10 had transitioned to the fiddle – a choice we’re sure glad she made. Since that time, Hayley has earned accolades at regional competitions, graduated with a full ride from Morehead State University’s music program, become a skilled multiinstrumentalist, and released a debut album of original songs.

JACOOZY

Hailing from just across the Blue Ridge Mountains, Fireside Collective has been making waves for more than a decade with their genre-bending blend of bluegrass, folk, and rock. Known for their dynamic live shows, they seamlessly weave together heartfelt lyrics, driving rhythms, and improvisational jams that keep audiences locked in from start to finish.

HANK, PATTIE & THE CURRENT

The pair of Hank Smith and Pattie

At the forefront of a 2020s jam band revival in the area, Jacoozy paid their dues in the App State house show scene before becoming key players in the local music scene. Fast forward five years, and Jacoozy has moved up the bill at venues and festivals, with a full schedule of gigs across the U.S., from the Midwest to the Great Plains and beyond. Jacoozy has the right combo of funk, jazz, and alternative jams that are tailor-made for a downtown mountain music festival.

JAY BROWN

An Appalachian native, Jay Brown has immersed himself in the region’s musical heritage. Combine that with his experience studying in West Africa and years of performances as a solo artist and with local bands, and you’ve got an eclectic blend of traditional influences and expressions. And one area where Jay Brown has carved out a niche for himself is in live piano accompaniment to silent movies.

JEREMIAH’S REVOLVING ORCHESTRA

Always something different, always something fresh, always something spectacular, Jeremiah’s Revolving Orchestra promises to be a Boonerang sensation. Pulling in a rotating cast of talented local musicians, the band’s namesake, Jeremiah Brown, puts on a oneof-a-kind show with every performance.

JUNALUSKA GOSPEL CHOIR

You would be hard-pressed to name a group more of a Boone institution than the Junaluska Gospel Choir, which traces its origins back over a century to 1918 and is based at the Boone Mennonite Church, up on the hill overlooking downtown. Regionally renowned for their impassioned performances in the Black and old-time gospel traditions, the choir is a multicultural, multigenerational ensemble of singers joined by some of the best local gospel, soul, and R&B musicians.

KALETA & SUPER YAMBA BAND

The band’s frontman, Kaleta, is a Benin-born, Nigerian-raised, and New York-proven singer and guitarist who draws upon a wealth of West African and American music traditions – from Yoruba jùjú to 1960s and 70s R&B and funk. It is musical fusion made in heaven. The equally talented Super Yamba Band is made up of dynamic instrumentalists who come together to create a multi-layered sound of keys, percussion, brass, and bass – with Kaleta showing off his chops on guitar and throwing in some James Brown caliber vocals. It’s no wonder Kaleta & Super Yamba Band have become a favorite at venues and festivals across the U.S.

LAZYBIRDS

There aren’t many bands in Boone that have been actively playing since a year that begins with 19. But the Lazybirds

have stood the test of time, as high school bandmates Jay Brown and James T. Browne have kept together a band of excellent local musicians across four different decades now.

LEOPARD LOUNGE

An expectation held in the band’s simple but apt slogan: vintage vibes, much leopard, very swank. With honey-sweet harmonies, deep grooves, and plenty of animal print to go around, this band has all the right elements for a legendary festival performance. Frontwoman Kat Chaffin (Kattagast Music) is a resilient and hardworking musician, artist, and creative catalyst who exemplifies the so-called High Country hustle, and she surrounds herself with some of the area’s most skilled and swankiest musicians.

LIAM PURCELL & CANE MILL ROAD

A band born right here in the Blue Ridge, they have broken ground in the Americana music scene with a bluegrass sound that honors traditional roots, while also pushing the progressive boundaries of the genre. Frontman Liam Purcell is a Boonie through and through, born in Deep Gap just down the road from Doc Watson. Over the past several years, Purcell has graduated from Berklee, spent a stint living and recording in Nashville, cleaned up on the competition circuit (including a trifecta instrumental sweep at Rockygrass), and toured nationally.

LUA FLORA

Lua Flora is one of those bands that makes music that you can’t help but enjoy, firmly in the lane of American folk, but infusing fresh energy with Caribbean and West African rhythms. And frontman Evan Button is one of those people that you can’t help but like – an App State alum who got his start here in Boone, with a knack for writing thoughtful and optimistic songs that connect at a soul level.

MAGENTA SUNSHINE

An Asheville-based band with members who have ties to Appalachian State, Magenta Sunshine is made up of a versatile crew of talented Western NC musicians. A just-right juxtaposition of classical and contemporary, low-key and highoctane, roots and world music, Magenta Sunshine draws upon elements of rock, jazz, and funk to create innovative original

compositions. Audiences appreciate the bass grooves, jammy vibes, and robust horn section.

MARIACHI PERLA TAPATIA DE NOEMI SILVESTRE

A band that will roam throughout the festival on Saturday, Mariachi Perla Tapatia de Noemí Silvestre is a musical ensemble based in Charlotte, NC, specializing in traditional Mexican mariachi music performances. With a focus on authenticity and cultural preservation, the group offers live entertainment for a variety of events and occasions, bringing the vibrant spirit of Mexico to audiences in the area.

MARTHA SPENCER & THE WONDERLAND BAND

The band’s frontwoman, Martha Spencer, comes from a musical legacy steeped in tradition, and from an early age she absorbed this culture, learning to play just about any stringed mountain instrument. Authentically Appalachian, Martha Spencer and the Wonderland Country Band is a third-generation family band that plays a blend of mountain music, including oldtime, bluegrass, and country.

MARVELOUS FUNKSHUN

Blending a just-right mix of funk, rock, and blues, Marvelous Funkshun is

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a venue and festival favorite. From bigname venues close to home like Ziggy’s in Greensboro and The Millennium Center to iconic stages like The Howlin’ Wolf in New Orleans and the Charleston Pour House in South Carolina, Marvelous Funkshun has established itself as a forefront funk band in the region.

MELISSA REAVES

Embodying the definition of what the Boonerang effect is all about, Melissa Reaves is a true Boonie that currently takes up residence in another mountain town of Bisbee, AZ, but always finds a way to return to the hometown of her heart. What can be said about this Boone celebrity that truly captures her sound, her energy, and her persona? Terms like “avant-garde,” “deconstructionist,” and “spontaneous” are thrown out often, but none of them truly says enough.

MR. ZEN

Mr. Zen is a local children’s musician known for his interactive performances in the High Country. He’ll bring fun and engaging music to the Boonerang Kids Zone.

ORQUESTA K’CHE

North Carolina’s premier Latin dance band, Orquesta K’Che, brings an unmatched energy to the stage, playing Cumbia, Merengue, Bolero, Salsa, and more. This 12-piece band includes a robust horn and percussion section and is made up of some of the region’s most talented musicians, with representation from Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Cuba, and Costa Rica.

REDBUD

Staying true to their motto, “If ya ain’t pickin’ ya ain’t living,” Redbud sticks to their roots playing traditional bluegrass tunes, but with a driving, high-energy punch. It’s the kind of bluegrass music that bridges the generational gap, appealing to the traditional stalwarts, while also drawing in younger audiences.

ROCKSTEADY@8

Tracing its origins back to an opportune opening set for legendary group Toots and the Maytals, Rocksteady@8 has been performing as a collective since 1999. Over the next decade, the band made a name for itself with its reggae-tinged

original compositions. With a heavy dose of Jamaican music styles, blended with ska, dancehall, gospel, and roots, Rocksteady@8 is a fusion band in every sense.

SALLY ANNE MORGAN

Sally Anne Morgan was born and raised in a rich Appalachian folk tradition. A true artist and naturalist, she draws on the simple elegance of nature to create compositions that honor traditional techniques while borrowing from a more modern, improvisational approach. Morgan’s songs feel profoundly organic –like the soundtrack of springtime in the Blue Ridge.

SAM FRIBUSH ORGAN TRIO

Born in the NC Triad, Sam Fribush took to music at a young age, exploring a variety of instruments. His education led him to Boston, his passion took him to New Orleans, and his heart (and perhaps a pandemic) brought him back to his home in NC. Sam Fribush Organ Trio blends jazz, funk, and blues – a fresh take on a vintage sound that feels quintessentially North Carolina.

SUPATIGHT

Formed in Durham, Supatight spent a number of its formative years in Boone in the early 2010s before moving to Asheville. Boone continues to be a special place for this band, and they still have a loyal following here in the High Country. Beloved venues like Boone Saloon, The Local, and the late Murphy’s have been familiar downtown stomping grounds for these guys. Since those days, their sound has evolved to encompass musical influences that include reggae, jazz, and soul – while still firmly rooted in funk. Audiences will appreciate original tunes and a smattering of funkified covers of popular favorites.

THE REVELERS

Cajun music on the streets of downtown Boone – that’s what we’re talking about with The Revelers! Blending in a mix of Louisiana Acadian influences, including zydeco, Creole, blues, and Swamp Pop, The Revelers are a six-piece collaborative supergroup of talented multiinstrumentalists.

TOUBAB KREWE

Over the course of two decades, Toubab Krewe has established itself as an institution in the regional music scene.

Blending American and West African music traditions, the band has a distinct worldwisened sound. And let’s just point out that this will definitely be the first time that the Kora makes an appearance as an instrument at Boonerang.

WHITETOP MOUNTAIN BAND

A family-based band that has been performing continuously since 1975, the Whitetop Mountain Band has a loyal following at festivals, competitions, and square dances across the region (and even internationally!). This is mountain music at its best – a little bit bluegrass, a little bit gospel, a little bit honky tonk, a little bit blues, and a whole lot of energy. Made up of some world-class multi-instrumentalists and torchbearers of Appalachian music, the Whitetop Mountain Band never disappoints.

WOMEN’S SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE

The East Boone Listening Room creates spaces for connecting and cultivating community in Boone through music and songwriting. For Boonerang, they will present a free showcase featuring six women

singer-songwriters at the Appalachian Theatre. Feature songwriters are: Sarah Deshields, Amanda Opelt, Noan Partly, Erin Williams Banks, Cayla Fralick and Elizabeth McCorvey.

WOKE COUNTY SPEEDWAY

Music made in the South by people from the South – that’s what Woke County Speedway is all about. Describing themselves as “Carolinian to a fault” and “alt-country insolvent,” WoCo has a boisterous punk-laced Southern swagger to their music.

YOUR FRIENDS

An improvisational jam band influenced by psych-rock, groove, and funk, Your Friends is based right here in Boone. The music is like chilling with your friends, the energy is immaculate, and the atmosphere is a mood. All the right elements are there. Really, their mountain photo shoot with woven ponchos, whimsical hats, and wooden walking staffs tells you everything you need to know.

HIGH COUNTRY TALENT takes center stage in run-up to

BY MOSS BRENNAN

Every summer for the last five years, Boonerang has brought its music and arts festival to downtown Boone in mid-June — but the event is more than just that summer weekend. While the main festival is a great time, two events held earlier in the year are also part of Boonerang.

The Battle of the Bands and Boone’s Got Talent events are part of Boonerang, but they don’t take place in the summer.

Taking place in early February this year, Boone’s Got Talent featured various acts, showcasing the talent in Boone and the High Country. In the past, it was part of the opening to the Boonerang Music and Arts Festival, but it would get lost in the shuffle of the busy weekend.

Boonerang Director Mark Freed said there were many reasons they moved the event from the main Boonerang weekend to February.

“One of those reasons was that we were hopeful to be able to draw some more attention to the competition from the students at Appalachian State University and even students in the local public schools, and give them the opportunity to participate, considering that both are on vacation in June,” Freed said. “Looking back at last year, the first year I carved out the time and went to the Boone’s Got Talent event, and I was feeling stressed about all of the things that were happening outside of the theater during Boonerang weekend, because it was the day before the festival started. I was only able to stay for the first 30 minutes, and I didn’t even get to see all the performances, and I thought, ‘Why don’t we find a way to put more attention on to this show?’”

In February, 20 acts competed for cash prizes, including $500 for the top prize, two $250 runners-up awards, and a $250 prize for the audience favorite. Performers were judged by creativity, stage presence, technical skill, audience engagement and overall impression.

The winners this year were:

Boonerang

• First Place - Tucker Conner

• Runner-Up - Michael Gee

• Runner-Up - Deep Shallow Band

• Audience Choice - Keith Ward

Boonerang’s Battle of the Bands shared a similar competitive spirit, though it unfolded over two separate events rather than one night.

The first, which took place in March, featured roots music and the second, which took place in April, focused on electric acts.

More than 40 bands submitted their music for a chance to take part in the event, and a panel narrowed it down to eight.

“One thing that we try to take into account with this competition is if the bands are trying to get themselves out there and trying to book gigs and making a real effort,” Freed said. “They all have different levels of websites or social media presences, even if some are not terribly strong yet, but they’re still working towards it and shooting for where they’re hoping to go. What we like about each of these bands is that they’re all working towards that goal. They’re not playing music like it is a Thursday night card game, you know? They’re not just getting together to just shoot the bull and have some social time. When it comes to bands that are trying to do something with their music, that’s inspiring for us at Boonerang because we hope to see musicians like this on the stages of our festival.”

The winning bands received a $500 cash prize and a performance slot at the main festival.

At the March event, His & Hers, Blue Ridge Betty, Midlife Trip, and Fern Hill battled it out in four 30-minute sets. Fern Hill took the crown and will perform at Boonerang’s BACR stage on Saturday at noon.

At the April event, Aboveground, Eco Spaceship, Pleasantly Wild and The Great Levelers battled it out, with Eco Spaceship taking home the crown. Eco Spaceship

will perform on Saturday at 2 p.m. at the BACR stage.

For the full stage schedule, visit www. boonerangfest.com/schedule.

Tips from the people who know BOONERANG BEST

BY MOSS BRENNAN

With events running from Friday afternoon through Sunday, there’s plenty to take in. Whether you’re a first-timer trying to figure out where to start or a longtime attendee looking to make the most of the weekend, Boonerang’s ambassadors and volunteers have some advice.

What would you tell someone who has never been to Boonerang?

JUDITH PHOENIX: I would tell someone how much fun it is to be surrounded with beautiful, sunny weather, happy people, great music, all kinds of food, and of course beer, and High Country artists.

JOHN CARNAHAN: Funny because I have had that conversation frequently with pending visitors and friends! I tell them that you can’t beat the mellow and friendly atmosphere, the stellar music, events, people, and overall simply fantastic time. Whether you like to kick back and listen or get down and dance, it’s all there. All musical styles are included, and there is definitely something for everyone. It is a unique atmosphere catering to families and music lovers alike.

SALI GILL JOHNSON: Pack light. You’ll likely want to buy a few things, but include a rain poncho just to make sure it doesn’t rain, or to sit on. Being a refillable water bottle/hydrate, wear sunscreen, hat (or buy one!) and comfortable shoes. Bring cash. Venmo/etc for the fabulous and diverse vendors, and be sure to visit the

festival merch store! Leave your sweet dog at home if possible; they really don’t enjoy crowds and walking around on asphalt as much as you think they do. Boone is a small college town and all the stages and activities are within just a few blocks. There are also several local restaurants, the library, theatre, and other indoor sites to rest and recharge. There is a special kids zone, multicultural events, and it’s all family friendly. Check out the Jones House/Town of Boone for information on parking.

BETH LYONS: There’s a huge variety of music, it’s not going to be “too crowded” and if you’re willing to walk a few blocks, there’s parking available!

What’s your favorite part of Boonerang?

PHOENIX: My favorite part is walking the streets, seeing friends, often whom I haven’t seen for a while, meeting new people, and soaking up the atmosphere.

CARNAHAN: My favorite part of Boonerang is having the opportunity to be an integral and appreciated part of it all through volunteering. I work to set up my summer travel around it because it is so much fun. It is the best volunteer experience I have ever had (and I’ve worked MerleFest - but no dis on that wonderful event!). Getting to be in the mix while the bands are setting up (I like to work stage) is a lot of fun, and ALL the volunteers are great. As a musician, I love the opportunity to meet so many other players from all over the region

and outside. It is great to see the manner in which the artists are appreciated and treated by the festival as well. Lastly, the festival itself goes above and beyond in its exemplary support of its volunteers. That was my first inkling that this festival was something different than others - it is truly the best!

JOHNSON: All of it. The people, the music, the crafts and the overall vibe. It’s often a reunion of sorts with the bands and attendees, and it’s free to attend.

LYONS: It’s friendly, laid back and there’s a huge variety of music.

What is your No. 1 tip for festival attendees?

PHOENIX: Be a volunteer for just 4 hours and get all kinds of extra perks. It is easy and multiple tasks (are) needed.

CARNAHAN: Wear comfortable shoes, and bring sunscreen - hopefully you’ll need it! Also, bring a chair if so inclined (or reclined!), and expect to be wowed. There is truly some genre of music for everyone throughout the days, and the multiple stages located throughout downtown are accommodating to entirely different performances - it is truly unique.

JOHNSON: Boone is a special place with lots of creative and cool people, just enjoy yourself!

LYONS: Bring sunscreen and an umbrella.

Is there any part of Boonerang you feel is underrated or not talked about as much?

PHOENIX: Maybe the surrounding

atmosphere of the feeling of community and well-being.

CARNAHAN: I am not sure what is out there about the festival, but I think that the appreciation shown to the volunteers by the staff exceeds all expectations. From the initial volunteer reception and training to the ongoing support and food service provided throughout the festival, it is a wonderful experience. To that end, the volunteers themselves are incredible and friendly, becoming a sort of extended family you bond with for a few days each year.

LYONS: There’s something for everyone of all ages

Are there any tips you would like first-time, or even longtime, festival attendees to know from a volunteer perspective?

CARNAHAN: Review the schedule and make a good plan to catch the music that you want to see. There

is so much and it definitely takes a little effort - it’s a good problem! To that end, include acts you have never seen before - you could be very surprised. The caliber of the talent is remarkable, and I have been ‘wowed’ repeatedly. When I first volunteered, I was relatively new to the area (moved from Alaska in 2019), so nearly all of the performers were new to me. The first year I volunteered, I told my wife how incredible the music was, and that it was the best festival I had been to, the most fun I’ve had, and planned to always work it in the future. So far, so good! This will be my fourth consecutive year?

JOHNSON: The staff and volunteers are the core of Boonerang, and they are just a great group of people.

LYONS: Boonerang has so many offerings while keeping the best small town feel — this makes it really special and easy to attend and enjoy

FIND IT. LOVE IT. THE ULTIMATE TREASURE HUNT.

BOONERANG INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL brings world cultures to Boone on June 21

BY LORELEI ROBERTS

The Boonerang International Festival returns June 21, bringing live music, cultural exhibits, and a parade celebrating the diversity of the High Country.

The international festival will take place on Sunday, June 21, from noon to 7 p.m., in the parking lot next to Lost Province, at the intersection of North Depot and Queen Street.

Admission to the event is free and will kick off at noon with the Boonerang International Parade of Nations, grand marshaled by Boone Police Department Officer Carlos Escobar. Organizers

described last year’s parade as “a truly unifying and soul-stirring moment.”

“It’s such a beautiful testimonial to how welcoming and loving this community is. Having a child that was born here, raised by immigrant parents, and now serves the community in that capacity and is the marshal for the festival, I think it’s just a full circle,” Q’Pasa Appalachia Co-Founder Yolanda Adams said.

Those who represent a country outside of the United States are invited to participate in the Parade of Nations. Visit form.jotform.com/250834100073040 to fill out the interest form.

Cultural tables will be set up throughout the festival to display information, artifacts, and items from different countries. Adams said it will create a “travel around the world” experience for attendees.

“It gives a sense of belonging that, even though I’m away from my country, this town still has adopted me as one of their own and is allowing me to still express my roots and culture,” Adams said. “I think that’s the beauty of it.”

The festival highlights different cultures through exhibits and booths, but the focal point is the music and dance.

Three bands will take the international stage, starting with Rocksteady@8 at 1 p.m. The band has been performing since 1999, blending Jamaican music styles, ska, dancehall, gospel, and roots to create original compositions.

Toubab Krewe will follow at 3 p.m. The band has been called “a new standard for fusions of rock n’ roll and West African music” by Afropop

Worldwide. The band showcases rock, African traditions, and jam sensibilities and incorporates different folk cultures, drawing inspiration from where they tour and who they interact with.

Orquesta K’Che will return to the festival for a second year, closing out the evening at 5 p.m. before a piñata finale. The 12-piece band based out of the NC Triangle is composed of members representing the USA, Venezuela, Cuba, Costa Rica and Puerto Rico. The dance band plays a diverse mix of Cumbia, Merengue, Bolero, Salsa and Latin Jazz.

Throughout the musical performances, dances will be performed by Highland Dance Step Troupe, Las Rosas y El Clavel, Colombianitas Dance and Latin Dance Boone.

The Boonerang International Festival is presented in conjunction with Q’Pasa Appalachia and Immigrant Connection of the High Country.

For more information on the International Festival, visit www. boonerangfest.com/international.

BEYOND THE MUSIC

Your guide to everything Boonerang has to offer

The music is the main draw at Boonerang — but festival-goers who only pay attention to the stages are missing half the fun.

While the first two days of the three-day festival are focused on the shows, Saturday adds an extra layer as the free downtown street festival becomes a full-fledged event with something for everyone.

SHOPS, CRAFTS AND NONPROFITS

Vendors at the heart of the festival offer one-of-a-kind handmade items and creative goods — whether it’s a piece of pottery from Hammock Ceramic or a creative sticker, water bottle, or doormat from Zosh Gift Shop.

Shoppers looking for vintage clothing

can also stop in at Anna Banana’s or Thrift Smith Vintage.

In addition to the various gifts from vendors, several nonprofits — including EDGE Nonprofit, Mountain True and Carolina Daze Festival — will have tents set up, with members on hand to discuss what they do. Several others, such as Friends of the Library and Watauga County Historical Society, will also be on hand near the Jones House.

The Watauga Humane Society will be there on Saturday, along with Partners Canines! Dog Water Station for dog owners.

FOOD AND DRINK

There’s plenty of food and drink to go

around, with something for almost every taste and palate — whether it’s a taco from Taqueria La Monarca or a hamburger from The Cardinal Burger Wagon. For those wanting a break from the music and the heat, Fizz Ed, right near one of the main stages, offers a full sit-down meal option.

Over near the Jones House, the DogFather will be serving hot dogs, and the Boy Scouts will be making kettle corn.

For dessert, choose from a cold treat from Raleigh Popsicle Company, ice cream from Ben & Jerry’s, or a frozen treat from Little Wing Ice Cream.

Those looking for non-alcoholic options can grab a mocktail from Sober Sojourn or a fresh cup from Lemon Lips Lemonade.

KIDS ZONE AND ACTIVITIES

For younger festival-goers, the Kids Zone at Watauga County Public Library is a fun stop on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with activities, crafts, music, games, magic, bubbles, and ice cream from Little Wing Ice Cream.

For older kids and adults, there’s dancing, face painting, sidewalk chalk, and Boonerang whiteboards scattered around the festival for messages and doodles.

Thrill-seekers of all ages can also try scaling the climbing wall just outside Rock Dimensions on Depot Street — one of the more unexpected highlights of the weekend.

Bath &Body Works®

Midlife Trip will play at Southend Brewing on June 20 from 2 to 5 p.m.

OTHER HAPPENINGS

Boonerang weekend doesn’t start and end at the festival gates. All around Boone, local venues and community spaces are getting in on the fun with concerts, yoga, dancing and more. Here’s a look at what’s happening Thursday through Saturday.

THURSDAY, JUNE 18:

• Lily’s Snack Bar will host its annual Doomerang event on June 18, 19 and 20. Doors open at 8 p.m. with music starting at 9 p.m. Get tickets at tinyurl.com/ yxwaztsz. The event is 21+.

• Roots in the Garden Concert with MAMA – 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. – FREE – at Daniel Boone Native Gardens. All ages. Visit www.danielboonenativegardens.org/ music for more.

• Niko Moon with openers Adam Church Band and Midlife Trip –Appalachian State University Holmes Convocation Center at. 7 p.m. (doors at 6 p.m.). All ages. Tickets available at appstatesports.evenue.net/event/SE26/ MOON

• Klee Liles at FizzEd (6- to 9 p.m.), followed by karaoke (9 p.m. to midnight)

FRIDAY, JUNE 19:

• Jerry’s Dead at Boone Saloon. Music

starts at 9:30 p.m. $5 at the door. 21+

• Midlife Trip at The Office (formerly ODB), from 7 to 9:30 p.m.

• Timothy Chandler Hicks & the Charlottans at SouthEnd Brewing – 7 to 10 p.m.

• Open mic night at FizzEd (10 p.m. to midnight)

SATURDAY, JUNE 20:

• Reggae Flow Yoga with Ahimsa – 9:30 a.m. – Neighborhood Yoga – FREE

• Marshall Daniels hand pan performance in Neighborhood Yoga - 11 a.m. to noon. FREE

• Mixed Level Flow Yoga with Linda –noon – Neighborhood Yoga - FREE

• Boone Saloon Boonerang After Party with Healyside Trio, Bradley Turner Trio, and Uh, Erik. Music starts at 9 p.m. $5 at the door. 21+

• Midlife Trip (2 to 5 p.m.) and Professor Twang (6 to 9 p.m.) at SouthEnd Brewing.

• Latin Dance night at FizzEd, starts at 8 p.m. FREE instruction. Dancing until midnight.

TOP 10 THINGS to take in while at Boonerang

BY MOSS BRENNAN

The following is a quick rundown of some of the top 10 things you don’t want to miss at this year’s Boonerang Music and Arts Festival.

1. BOONERANG DOCUMENTARY SCREENING

Start your Saturday with a documentary on Boonerang at 11:30 a.m. at the Appalachian Theatre. The first event of Saturday is a screening of a feature-length documentary exploring how and why people return to Boone, particularly for the namesake celebration, Boonerang Music & Arts Festival, which brings people back to the high country every summer. It will also feature a discussion with director Bradley Pearce.

2.

BOONERANG INTERNATIONAL

Boonerang International is a beautiful display of unity and love, celebrating the diverse backgrounds and cultures that make

our community vibrant. The final of Boonerang takes place on Sunday, June 21, at the intersection of North Depot and Queen Street. The Parade of Nations, a truly unifying and soul-stirring moment, takes place at noon. The Boonerang International Festival is presented in conjunction with Q’Pasa Appalachia and Immigrant Connection of the High Country.

3. SILENT DISCO

Let loose at the North Depot Stage both Friday and Saturday nights at the festival during the Silent Disco. Get down and boogie with DJ takeovers from Girls, Gays, and Theys Rave, Peak Positive and Disco Diet.

4. MUSIC ROUND-UP

Try to check out at least one (or more) bands at each festival stage between Friday and Sunday! Make sure to visit the Town of Boone Stage at South Depot, Jones House Stage presented by Allen Wealth Management, Mast General Store Stage at North Depot, Mast General Store Stage at North Depot, BACR Stage presented by White Fence Farm and the Appalachian Theatre.

5.

FESTIVAL MERCH

Make sure to check out the awesome Boonerang merchandise at the Mast General

Store Annex on North Depot Street. Make sure to grab a festival shirt featuring Allyson Murphy’s artwork, available on T-shirts, posters, and stickers courtesy of KindDesigns Printing.

6. WOMEN’S SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE

The East Boone Listening Room creates spaces for connecting and cultivating community in Boone through music and songwriting. For Boonerang, they will present a free showcase featuring six women singersongwriters: Cayla Fralick, Elizabeth McCorvey, Amanda Opelt, Sarah DeShields, Noan Partly and Erin Williams Banks. Take a break from the hustle and bustle, enjoy the cozy vibes of the historic theatre, and appreciate some quality music and songwriting from these talented women.

7. LOCAL DANCE GROUP SHOWCASE

Check out the Dance Lot at Wild Craft Eatery on Saturday, starting at 2 p.m., for a local dance group showcase. Watch as local dancers from Sole Impact Studios, Las Rosas y El Clavel, Colombianitas Dance, Boone Dance Trove, High Country Step Dance Troupe, and High Country Highland Dance School perform their skills.

8. APPALACHIAN THEATRE

June days can get hot in Boone, and there’s no better place to cool down while still enjoying the

festival than by visiting the Appalachian Theatre. On Saturday, the theatre will have multiple events: Boonerang Documentary Screening and Discussion Panel, Silent Film with Live Piano by Jay Brown, Women’s Songwriters Showcase, Morganton Improv, Lazybirds and Melissa Reaves. Check out www.boonerangfest.com/ schedule for the full schedule.

9. LOCAL BREWS

Boonerang is proud to work with local breweries, wineries, and cideries for drinks at the festival, so make sure to stop by and grab a brew from Appalachian Mountain Brewery and Cidery, Booneshine Brewing Company, Lost Province Brewing Co, SouthEnd BrewingBoone, Mill Camp Wines & Ciders, Goofy Foot Taproom Boone, Parallel Brewing Co., and New River Brewing.

10. VENDORS APLENTY

Make sure to have a budget when you head out to Boonerang, as you’ll want to buy a lot of things. The festival features a great lineup of vendors showcasing local art and just about anything you can think of. If you’re with someone who likes to impulse buy, good luck!

PLACES TO EAT

Breakfast

Burgers

Milkshakes

1286 NC-105 •Boone, NC

Sun-Tues: 7am-3pm .W ed-Sat7 am-9pm

Celebrate Boonerang with the best homestyle cooking around! troys105diner

STAY, PLAY AND BOONERANG

Your High Country checklist

BY MOSS BRENNAN

While you are “booneranging” back for the summer music and arts festival, make sure to explore the High Country while you’re in town. Here’s a handy checklist to help you make the most out of your Boonerang visit.

GO ON AN ADVENTURE

Boone and the High Country as a whole offer outdoor enthusiasts a great many opportunities to have fun and go on an adventure. While you’re in town for Boonerang, go take a hike! With many hiking trails and greenways within 10 to 20 minutes drive from Boone, you can have many choices. Take in scenic views on nearby Grandfather Mountain or find a short hike off of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

EAT LOCAL

Downtown Boone has many great restaurants available for whatever you are feeling. If you need to take a break from the heat, stop in one of the many local restaurants around town. Staying before and after Boonerang? Venture further out from downtown and try some of the newer restaurants that have opened up since the last time you were here.

COOL OFF

What’s summer without going and cooling off in a river? While you’re up here, visit one of the many tubing services and take a float on the New River. Don’t want to float but still want the serenity the river has to offer? Check out many of the local outfitters and see what they have to offer as far as fishing guide services.

TAKE THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED

Watauga’s backroads are half the adventure. Wind through Historic Valle Crucis, stop at the original Mast General Store, or explore the small communities tucked into the hollers. You never know what hidden gem — a roadside farm

stand, a bluegrass jam, a covered bridge — is just around the next bend.

CHECK OUT SOME ART

While the Boonerang Music & Arts Festival features some of the best High Country art in one place, make sure to

visit some galleries while you are up here. The mountains have always inspired makers and it shows in the beautiful works of art that are in the many small galleries and shops that are sprinkled all over the area.