A Six-Day Celebration of Music, Community, and Inspiration
Bluegrass • Old-Time • Country • Americana
• Western Swing
The Matheson Music Festival is a six-day celebration of bluegrass, old-time, country, Americana, and traditional acoustic music — created to inspire the next generation of musicians. Hosted by the Matheson Music Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the festival blends high-level performances with hands-on workshops, youth programming, and community events so everyone — kids, beginners, and pros — can participate.
Festival Highlights
What’s Happening This Year
Wednesday
EAC Concert
Kickoff concert at Eastern Arizona College with touring acts.
Thursday
Schools & Gila Valley Idol
Student field trips, in-school performances, and local singing competition prelims.
Friday
48th Annual Fiddle Contest
Historic contest + main stage performances all day.
Saturday
Pros & Kids Band Scramble + Music & Play Zone
Youth-centered workshops, games, and performance opportunities.
Sunday
Gospel Morning & Farewell Jams
Community sing, family jams, and final sets.
Monday
Farewell Performance and Raffle Drawing
Student field trips, in-school performances, and local singing competition prelims.
Festival Highlights
Our festival is a must-attend event for music lovers!
♪ Interactive Music Workshops
Join our Interactive Music Workshops to learn guitar, vocals, fiddle, bass, mandolin, dobro, and banjo from skilled musicians. Gain hands-on experience, enhance your skills, and connect with fellow music lovers.
♫ Live Performances
Experience an incredible lineup of artists celebrating traditional acoustic music! From well-known acts to fresh new bands, enjoy unforgettable performances by:
Phoebe Hunt and Dominick Leslie • Edgar Loudermilk The Honey Buckets • Muddy Mountain West •
Forest Thurman & Friends • JAMPAK • Tuesday String Band • Crumpled Bills Kin • North of Lonesome
• Cisco and the Racecars • Bro • Alpine Divide • Doghouse Drive
Join us for a weekend of music, community, and inspiration—all in support of Music Education!
♬Family-Friendly Activities
Vendors
Discover a variety of unique vendors adding charm and excitement to the festival! Many have generously donated items for our amazing raffle prizes—don’t miss your chance to win!Raffles
Join the fun and support a great cause! Enter our 50/50 raffles and win incredible prizes, including musical instruments. Grab your tickets and see what luck brings!Fundraiser Breakfast – Friday, Saturday, and Monday 8–10 AM
Start your day with a delicious breakfast while supporting The Matheson Music Festival!Open Mic – Thursday 9-11 PM
Show off your talent! Perform for 10 minutes and wow the crowd!
