First of four summer bluegrass festivals in Nine Mile kicks off tonight

The Nine Mile Bluegrass Festival has become so popular in its 26 years that campers arrived as early as Monday to claim a good seat for the show, according to founder Louis Edmons.

This is the first of four Nine Mile bluegrass shows that will be held this summer, according to Edmons, one of the show's founders. The remaining three are June 24-25, Aug. 12-13 and Sept. 16-17. The shows are the largest fundraiser for the Nine Mile Volunteer Fire Department.

No alcohol or drugs are allowed. Anyone dressed immodestly or causing trouble will be removed from the site. Some folks pull up lawn chairs to listen to music; others get together for shade-tree jam sessions.

Performing today and Saturday will be Fredonia Bluegrass Band, Valley Grass, Just Passin' Thru, The Weathers Family and Cumberland Heart.

Playing tonight only are Ed Brown and Cumberland Band and Lantana Drifters. Groups playing only Saturday are Ken Scoggins and Miller's Creek, The Rigney Family, The Bilbreys and Clear View.

Shows start at 7 tonight, noon Saturday (all times Central) at the Nine Mile fire department, 9 miles north of Pikeville off Highway 127 on Lone Oak Road. Admission is $5 for the weekend for ages 12 and up.

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