Experience a Full Day of Live Entertainment at the Statesville Heritage Festival

in Statesville Heritage Festival

One of the biggest highlights of the inaugural Statesville Heritage Festival will be a full day of live entertainment celebrating the many cultures, traditions, and musical styles that help tell the American story.

On Saturday, August 1, 2026, the outdoor stage at the Statesville Event Center will come alive with performances ranging from traditional Appalachian bluegrass and gospel to Latin music, cultural dance, percussion, community choir performances, and high-energy funk.

As part of the nationwide America 250 commemoration, the Statesville Heritage Festival celebrates the people, traditions, and shared experiences that have shaped our nation and continue to shape our community today. Music has always been one of the most powerful ways to bring people together, and this year's entertainment lineup reflects the diverse voices and cultures that make Statesville such a vibrant place to live.

Whether you stay for one performance or spend the entire day enjoying the festival, there will be something for everyone.

Entertainment Schedule

Visitors can enjoy a full day of performances on the outdoor stage:

10:00am - 10:45am: Ryan Shah (Solo drummer)

10:45am - 11:00am: Ballet Flklorico Mis Raices

11:15am - 11:45am: MLK Jr Community Choir

11:45am - 12:00pm: Ballet Flklorico Mis Raices

12:00pm - 12:45pm: Clay Lunsford (Bluegrass trio)

12:45p - 01:00pm: Ballet Flklorico Mis Raices

1:00pm - 2:00pm: Banda La Iniciativa

2:00pm - 2:30pm: Iredell Rhythm Experience "IRE"

2:30pm - 4:00pm: Yo Mama's Big Fat Booty Band (Headliner)

10:00 AM – 10:45 AM: Ryan Shah

The festival begins with internationally recognized percussionist Ryan Shah, whose dynamic performances blend classical Indian tabla with contemporary percussion.

Ryan has performed at notable venues including the Georgia Dome, Shakori Hills GrassRoots Festival, Salt Lake Stadium, Rabindra Sadan, Nazrul Manch, and the South Carolina Governor's Mansion. A recipient of multiple South Carolina Arts Commission grants for original music, Ryan has spent decades performing, composing, and teaching both in the United States and India.

His opening performance promises to be an unforgettable introduction to a day celebrating cultures from around the world.

10:45 AM – 11:00 AM: Ballet Folklórico Mis Raíces

Experience the beauty, color, and energy of traditional Mexican folkloric dance as Ballet Folklórico Mis Raíces takes the stage.

Through vibrant costumes, authentic choreography, and traditional music, the group celebrates Mexico's rich cultural heritage while sharing traditions that have been passed down through generations.

The group will return for additional performances throughout the day.

11:15 AM – 11:45 AM: MLK Jr. Community Choir

The MLK Jr. Community Choir will share an inspiring performance celebrating unity, hope, and the enduring tradition of gospel and community music.

Their performance reflects the power of music to bring people together and highlights an important part of our community's cultural heritage.

12:00 PM – 12:45 PM: Clay Lunsford Trio

North Carolina bluegrass legend Clay Lunsford brings decades of musical tradition to the Statesville Heritage Festival.

Born into one of North Carolina's most respected Appalachian musical families, Clay has performed more than 11,000 musical events throughout his career. A gifted multi-instrumentalist and longtime member of The Gospel Voices, Clay has dedicated his life to preserving traditional Appalachian and gospel music while inspiring generations of musicians.

His performance offers visitors an opportunity to experience one of North Carolina's most treasured musical traditions.

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Banda La Iniciativa

Bringing incredible energy to the festival, Banda La Iniciativa delivers an exciting performance showcasing the vibrant sounds and traditions of regional Mexican music.

Their lively performance invites audiences of all ages to celebrate through music, rhythm, and dance.

2:00 PM – 2:30 PM Iredell Rhythm Experience (IRE)

Members of the Iredell Rhythm Experience (IRE) stand together in a grassy outdoor area surrounded by hand drums and percussion instruments during Art in the Park. The group smiles and poses beside conga drums, djembes, and bongos near event tents as the sun begins to set behind the trees. The scene captures the fun and community spirit of the live music experience.

The Iredell Rhythm Experience (IRE) showcases the creativity and talent found right here in our local community.

Their energetic performance adds another unique musical experience to an already incredible lineup and highlights the importance of supporting local artists and performers.

2:30 PM – 4:00 PM {Headliner}: Yo Mama's Big Fat Booty Band

Closing out the festival is nationally known funk powerhouse Yo Mama's Big Fat Booty Band.

Originally formed in Boone, North Carolina, the band has spent more than two decades touring the country, performing in 49 states while building a reputation for unforgettable live shows filled with infectious grooves, incredible musicianship, and nonstop energy.

Now entering an exciting new era with returning original members and an all-star lineup, the band continues to be one of North Carolina's most celebrated live acts. Their performance promises to have festivalgoers dancing as the Statesville Heritage Festival comes to an unforgettable close.

More Than Music

While the entertainment lineup is worth the trip on its own, visitors can also enjoy cultural exhibits, food vendors, community organizations, educational presentations, local artisans, family activities, and the Statesville Bookbag Giveaway throughout the day.

The Statesville Heritage Festival is designed to celebrate the many stories, traditions, and cultures that have helped shape both our community and our nation while bringing neighbors together through shared experiences.