07/19/2026
The annual Big Grass Bluegrass Festival, will be Friday, July 24, and Saturday, July 25, at the Collins Theatre of Paragould, AR, 120 West Emerson Street, in Paragould, AR. This event is a presentation of the Collins Theatre Foundation with support from KASU Public Radio, the public media service of Arkansas State University.
Six renown bluegrass acts will be featured over the course of three concerts. Performers on Friday, July 24, at 7:00 p.m. will be Chris Jones & The Night Drivers along with Wood Box Heroes .
Chris Jones and the Night Drivers is a highly decorated bluegrass ensemble known for their blend of traditional roots, original songwriting, and dry humor. Founded in 1995 by singer and guitarist Chris Jones, the band has earned over a dozen International Bluegrass Music Association awards and has achieved more than 24 #1 songs. Jones is also well known as a DJ for SiriusXM satellite radio, hosting programs on its Bluegrass Junction and Willie's Roadhouse channels.
Wood Box Heroes is an American acoustic "supergroup" composed of elite Nashville session musicians and award-winning artists. The band is known for a contemporary bluegrass sound that incorporates jazz, rock, and classical influences. The group includes fiddler, vocalist, and Arkansas native Jenee Fleenor , a five-time winner of the Country Music Association's Musician of the Year honor. She has also toured in the bands of Blake Shelton and George Strait. Also in the band is Grammy award winner Barry Bales, a long-time member of Alison Krauss’ band Union Station.
At the concert at 1:00 on Saturday, July 25, at 1:00 p.m., three bands will perform.
Ramblin' Heart is a bluegrass ensemble based in Benton, Arkansas. They are recognized for their outstanding vocal harmonies and traditional bluegrass style. The group includes former members of long-time regional bluegrass favorites Cedar Hill, the Acousticatz, and the Baker Family.
High Fidelity is an award-winning bluegrass quartet based near Nashville, Tennessee, known for meticulously recreating the "high fidelity" sound of 1950s and 60s bluegrass bands. Formed in 2014, the group draws heavy inspiration from first-generation bluegrass masters like Don Reno & Red Smiley, the Stanley Brothers, and Jim & Jesse. The group includes former Paragould resident, Arkansas State University graduate, and National Bluegrass Banjo Champion Kurt Stephenson.
Williamson Branch is a Nashville-based, high-energy family bluegrass band known for their polished harmonies and vibrant stage presence. Founded in 2014, this outstanding group is entering its 12th touring season in 2026. The group has over 500,000 social media followers, and they have had multiple #1 and top ten hits.
To close the festival, Rhonda Vincent and the Rage will perform at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 25. Widely considered the most decorated band in bluegrass history, Vincent and her band members have received over 100 awards collectively. Led by Grand Ole Opry member Vincent, often hailed as the "Queen of Bluegrass," this legendary group is celebrated for a style that blends driving traditional bluegrass with elements of classic country.
Don't miss any of these amazing concerts!
