Photo Credit: Jay Strausser

On Thursday, May 22, DelFest returned to the Allegany County Fairgrounds in Cumberland, Md. Last night’s official onset of the festival format represented its 17th season and opened with a welcome frame from the namesake ensemble, The Del McCoury Band. 

Following a captivating performance from the 86-year-old bluegrass maestro and his unit of supporting players, the stage was handed over to the all-female, Nashville-forged Sister Sadie. They unleashed their unique brand of folkgrass, filling the air with their infectious energy and captivating the audience. 

Oh Brother, Where Art Thou?-associated song contributor, Dan Tyminski, shuffled through selections that flexed his guitar prowess, ahead of The Wood Brothers’ arrival, fresh off their touring stint in support of the String Cheese Incident. 

The Kitchen Dwellers took the stage as the evening turned into the early morning of Friday, May 23, keeping the energy high for those still looking to move to the music. The night concluded with the arrival of the Larry Keel Experience, the final act of the day, before songs pick back up today. View the festival’s daily schedule here. 

DelFest, Jay Strausser and Heidi Holloway shared photos from the initial day at the Allegany County Fairgrounds. Scroll down to view.