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Get the most out of the Red, White and Bluegrass festival

By Tracy Bogusz | The News Herald

Published: June 30, 2008

Morganton - If you've never gone to a Red White and Bluegrass Festival, the organizers say this information will make you a savvy visitor.

Q. What should I bring?

* A lawn chair.
* Sunscreen.
* A light jacket. It can get cool late in the evening and at night.
* Your instrument of choice. Many impromptu jam sessions go on all week.

Q. What shouldn't I bring?

* Pets — The festival promises to be fun for people, but they don't allow Fido and other pets in the main seating area.
* Alcohol — Absolutely banned on the grounds. This is a family-friendly festival.
* Large coolers — Food and drink are sold on site. Small, individual-size coolers are permitted, but organizer Gary Leonhardt encourages folks to support the event by purchasing from vendors.

Q. Where can I park?

* Parking areas include the parking lot at the soccer complex, the Greenway lot and adjacent open fields. Because a large crowd is expected, come early and don't be in a hurry to leave. Expect short traffic tie-ups after the last stage show each night.
* Handicapped parking is available near the stage areas.
* Parking attendants will direct you and help you find space.
* Golf carts will shuttle people who cannot walk long distances from parking areas.

Q. Where's the restroom?

* The soccer complex.
* The Greenway restrooms.
* And look for portable toilets around the grounds.

Q. What if I get hungry or thirsty?

* Food and beverage vendors will operate during all event hours. The News Herald's sports editor, Matt Collins, says the peach slushies "are to die for."

Q. The kids can't sit still. Where can they play?

* Parents can keep an eye on their youngsters playing on playground equipment next to a covered picnic area.

Q. Can I get a souvenir?

* Of course. On site you can buy event programs, T-shirts, hats, bluegrass instruments, music and other goodies.