BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — The Appalachian Artist Festival returns for its third year on Saturday, Aug. 2, bringing a full day of live music, visual arts, vendors, and interactive experiences to downtown Inez.
Organizer Jennifer Wells recently unveiled the musical lineup for this year’s event—a blend of tradition and creativity—and a highly anticipated homecoming performance.
Annalyse & Ryan, a folk-Americana duo based in Beacon, New York, will take the stage for lead singer Annalyse McCoy’s first hometown performance in over two decades. McCoy, an Inez native, has built a successful music career, making this return particularly special.
“I don’t know if anyone around here has seen Annalyse perform since we graduated 23 years ago,” Wells said. “It’s going to be a special moment for the community.”
An exciting mix of local and regional talent joins the duo in the festival stage lineup. Acts include Cody Lee Meece & The Poor Excuses, John Thomas Moore, Cody McCoy, Nathan Coots, and Adalyn Ramey.
Beyond the music, Wells and fellow organizers are adding several new elements to this year’s AAF. The event will include a songwriters’ round and an open mic for stories, poetry, and spoken word performances.
Another exciting addition is a tattoo artist on-site.
Meanwhile, festival-goers will witness traditional Appalachian craftsmanship through live demonstrations, including wood sculpting and an operational moonshine still display.
Attendees can explore Maw & Paw’s Knick-Knacks, an interactive exhibit featuring old-time household items—think butter churns, washboards, and everyday tools from a bygone era.
A cherished tradition, a quilt display will again showcase the region’s deep-rooted artistry. This year’s display will be inside the courtroom at the historic Martin County Courthouse.
To add a bit of nostalgia, organizers are reviving old-time games such as hot potato and cake walks. They are also bringing back a crowd favorite—Meet the Cardinals, where festival-goers can meet the high school football team.
“If we can secure enough funding, we would love to add some events on Friday night as well,” Wells noted.
Established in 2023, the Appalachian Artist Festival celebrates the diverse artistic talents found throughout Appalachia. This one-day event highlights the work of writers, musicians, painters, sketch artists, photographers, videographers, quilters, crocheters, jewelry makers, and more.
In addition to free live music performances by Appalachian singer-songwriters, festival-goers will enjoy engaging storytelling sessions and poetry readings, and a vendor market filled with unique artist creations.
Food and beverage vendors will also be on-site to offer a diverse selection of treats.
Stay tuned for upcoming festival news and a full schedule of events.