In its 36th year, MerleFest celebrates late founder Doc Watson’s vision of uniting multiple genres of music, including folk, bluegrass, and gospel. His flat-picking style of guitar playing was a game changer, especially in bluegrass. Headliners for this four-day event, which typically draws a musical migration of more than 70,000 attendees, include Old Crow Medicine Show, Turnpike Troubadours, and Nickel Creek, in addition to lots of new voices.» Wilkes Community College, 1328 S Collegiate Dr.; Thursday 1:30 p.m., Friday-Sunday 9:30 a.m.; general admission $80-$115, multi-day pass $205-$505; (800) 343-7857; www.merlefest.org