Appalachian Summer Festival Unveils 2026 Lineup

The annual arts celebration at Appalachian State University announces its star-studded schedule.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 4:03pm

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An abstract, minimalist illustration composed of bold, jagged shapes in shades of blue, yellow, and red, conceptually representing the diverse artistic programming of the Appalachian Summer Festival.The vibrant 2026 lineup of the Appalachian Summer Festival promises an eclectic celebration of the arts in Boone, North Carolina.Boone Today

Appalachian State University's annual summer arts festival, An Appalachian Summer, has unveiled its highly anticipated 2026 lineup, featuring a diverse array of renowned performers and artists. The festival, which takes place in Boone, North Carolina, is set to host a variety of music, dance, theater, and visual arts events over the course of several weeks.

Why it matters

An Appalachian Summer Festival has become a beloved cultural institution in the region, drawing visitors from across the Southeast and beyond to experience world-class entertainment in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains. The festival's ability to consistently attract top-tier talent is a testament to its reputation and the community's enduring appreciation for the arts.

The details

The 2026 lineup includes Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile, acclaimed classical pianist Lang Lang, the renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and Tony Award-winning Broadway star Audra McDonald, among other high-profile acts. The festival will also showcase local and regional artists, as well as educational workshops and community engagement events.

  • An Appalachian Summer Festival is held annually in Boone, North Carolina.
  • The 2026 festival is scheduled to take place from June 28 to August 2, 2026.

The players

An Appalachian Summer Festival

An annual summer arts celebration hosted by Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina, featuring a diverse lineup of music, dance, theater, and visual arts events.

Appalachian State University

A public university located in Boone, North Carolina, known for its strong arts and cultural programming, including the annual An Appalachian Summer Festival.

Brandi Carlile

A Grammy-winning singer-songwriter who is scheduled to perform at the 2026 An Appalachian Summer Festival.

Lang Lang

A renowned classical pianist who is scheduled to perform at the 2026 An Appalachian Summer Festival.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

A renowned modern dance company that is scheduled to perform at the 2026 An Appalachian Summer Festival.

Audra McDonald

A Tony Award-winning Broadway star who is scheduled to perform at the 2026 An Appalachian Summer Festival.

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What they’re saying

“We're thrilled to welcome such an incredible lineup of artists to this year's An Appalachian Summer Festival. This festival has always been about celebrating the arts and bringing world-class entertainment to our community, and this year's schedule is a true testament to that mission.”

— Denise Ringler, Director of Cultural Arts, Appalachian State University

What’s next

Tickets for the 2026 An Appalachian Summer Festival will go on sale to the general public on April 15, 2026.

The takeaway

The 2026 An Appalachian Summer Festival promises to be a cultural highlight of the year, offering residents and visitors alike the opportunity to experience a diverse array of world-class performing and visual arts in the beautiful setting of the Blue Ridge Mountains.