Boone's artistic identity, long shaped by street performances, will be celebrated at the upcoming Buskers Fest in downtown. The event, scheduled from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., promises to transform King Street and surrounding areas into a vibrant cultural showcase, blending the town's rich busking tradition with modern artistic expressions.
Walking through downtown Boone, residents and visitors often encounter visual art at locations like the Turchin Center for Visual Arts, the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country, and Nth Degree gallery and studios. Just as common is seeing a musician performing with a tip jar nearby. This practice, known as busking, is the act of playing in public spaces for voluntary donations and has, according to the Watauga Arts Council website, "changed the artistic identity of Boone."
The festival aims to uphold this legacy while embracing new artistic forms. Krista Holt, operations and programs manager for the Watauga Arts Council, stated that the mission of the Buskers Fest is to "keep the tradition of busking alive while collaborating with modern artists." This year marks a significant step in that direction, as the Watauga Arts Council plans to introduce a dedicated stage at the Jones House Cultural Center equipped to handle electronic instruments. Traditionally, busking has involved acoustic performances, making this electronic stage a first for the festival. Holt noted that integrating this new element has been a primary source of organizational stress, but they are in "the final stretch to resolve all logistical details."
Beyond musical acts, which will be distributed along King Street and also on Depot Street and Howard Street, the festival will feature a wide array of cultural experiences. Attendees can expect to see aerial fabric artists, returning after their participation in the 2023 festival, and a drum circle. The App State Clay Club will host interactive ceramic wheels, and the nonprofit organization EDGE will offer henna tattoos. Local artisans, including potters, painters, and jewelers, will showcase their creations. Many King Street businesses will also be participating, and the Appalachian Theatre will feature The Local Vocals karaoke band. Holt emphasized the festival's diverse offerings, stating that "every few steps there is a new cultural experience" and adding that "there will be something for everyone."
The history of busking in the High Country is deeply rooted, with legendary bluegrass singer Doc Watson having begun his musical career by busking on street corners with his brother Linny Watson. A statue of Doc Watson depicting this scene stands at the intersection of Depot Street and King Street, serving as a permanent reminder of this heritage.
The Buskers Fest itself began in 2021 as a creative response to COVID-19 restrictions by Amber Bateman, executive director of the Watauga Arts Council. Her goal was to safely support local creatives, and an outdoor festival allowed for a larger event than could be held indoors. It was an immediate success, leading the Watauga Arts Council to continue the festival annually. Holt highlighted the Watauga Arts Council's commitment to accessibility, which guided the choice of King Street as the festival venue, recognizing it as both the heart of Boone and a significant cultural location.
The festival will take place in downtown Boone, with the exact schedule of performances and activities to be announced. Parking will be available via metered spots on King Street and Queen Street, as well as on the Appalachian State University campus in lots such as Peacock Hall, College Street, and River Street. Organizers encourage attendees to utilize AppalCart buses for transportation to this year's Buskers Fest.
