IBMA World of Bluegrass facilitates the growth and development of the bluegrass music community, from professional to fan. This goal is accomplished through four main components: business conference, showcases, awards show, and music festival.
This is the only place in the world where you can interact one-on-one with industry leaders, discover the hottest new music, jam with your heroes, and be a part of bluegrass history!
Connect, discover, and grow with bluegrass music industry leaders!
Q: Will there be any in-person events in Raleigh, North Carolina?
A: IBMA World of Bluegrass 2021 will return to Raleigh as an in-person experience with adjustments for health and safety. We are working diligently to incorporate health and safety measures per local, state, and CDC recommendations at the time of the event, with detailed protocols and safety measures to be outlined this summer. In addition to providing safe in-person IBMA World of Bluegrass experience, we will also supplement with virtual access to many of the week’s events.
Q: When will tickets and hotel blocks go on sale?
A: June 8 at 10am CT for IBMA Members and June 15 for general public. Become an IBMA member to receive early-bird access and exclusive discounts!
Q: How can I purchase tickets?
A: You can purchase tickets online here, or by phone at 1-800-514-3849.
Q: I don’t plan to attend in person this year. Will virtual content be available?
A: Yes! Thanks to the rousing success of last year’s IBMA Virtual World of Bluegrass, we are excited to expand accessibility to our events by making some content available online through a virtual platform. More information will be announced at a later date. Until then, check out the IBMA YouTube channel to see select content from last year’s event.
Q: Will virtual content be archived for on-demand viewing?
A: To the extent possible in accordance with licensing and fair-use agreements, we plan to make a variety of IBMA World of Bluegrass content available for on-demand viewing.
Q: Are you accepting volunteers this year?
A: Yes! Details and call for applications will be announced through our mailing list and social media channels later this summer.
Q: What are the current COVID-19 guidelines in Raleigh?
A: As of May 14, 2021, the Governor of North Carolina has determined that the capacity restrictions, social distancing requirements, should be lifted in all settings and the general face covering requirement should be lifted in most settings. The IBMA will continue to monitor local guidelines and put safety precautions in place in accordance with state, local, and CDC recommendations as those evolve.
Learn more from the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services by visiting nc.gov/covid-19/staying-ahead-curve.
Q: What if my question hasn’t been answered?
A: Great question! Please email [email protected].
There are so many ways for professionals and fans to maximize your IBMA World of Bluegrass experience.
The IBMA has discounted hotel blocks at seven area hotels, including Marriott City Center, Sheraton, Residence Inn, DoubleTree, Hampton Inn & Suites, Holiday Inn Raleigh Downtown, Red Roof Plus. We also have RV camping available at the NC State Fairgrounds (includes a free shuttle to the events).
IBMA World of Bluegrass takes place in the heart of downtown Raleigh and stretches from Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts all the way up to the State Capital grounds, as well as in and around the Raleigh Convention Center, which also has convenient parking and is accessible for people with disabilities.
Our partners at Visit Raleigh have information on all the ways you can get around the capitol city in addition to designated parking areas!
The International Bluegrass Music Association, the City of Raleigh, event producer PineCone, and all of the members of the Local Organizing Committee welcome ALL bluegrass fans to Raleigh.
In this ADA section, learn more about drop-off points, accessible viewing areas around stages, mobility options, quiet spaces, sighted guides, restrooms, public transportation and parking, and more!
The International Bluegrass Music Association is dedicated to providing a harassment-free event experience for everyone at all IBMA-produced events.
The IBMA is the non-profit music association that connects, educates, and empowers bluegrass professionals and enthusiasts, honoring tradition and encouraging innovation in the bluegrass community worldwide.
Your support drives our mission and helps us achieve new goals. When you support IBMA, you support the bluegrass community worldwide.
Bluegrass values of authenticity, family, and community reflect well on your brand when you partner with the IBMA.
IBMA World of Bluegrass has grown to over 223,000 attendees and over $12 million in annual economic impact over six years in Raleigh, NC.
We offer a diverse range of advertising & sponsorship opportunities. Activate your brand on the largest platform for bluegrass music in the world!
IBMA World of Bluegrass is funded in part by a grant from South Arts with support from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.
