The annual trek to Mossy Oak Music Park in Guyton for those who play and enjoy bluegrass and gospel music is well under way. And the Rose and Lanier families and their staff are busy preparing for the 30th bluegrass festival to be held at the award-winning park and music venue.

The park encompasses 34 acres on the family farm on the Old Louisville Road outside of Guyton and has all the amenities necessary to assure visitors a great Memorial Day week, including a covered stage and pavilion that seats more than 700.

With more than 500 (30 and 50 amp) camp sites and ample parking for those who attend by auto, daily visitors can enjoy a full kitchen, playground and recreation area, an on-site flea market, a variety of vendors, indoor handicap accessible restrooms, and a host of other features, including nearly two dozens swings surrounding the stage area, not to mention the music of eight noted bluegrass bands.

“We’re especially happy to be able to continue to bring some of the best bluegrass and gospel groups to Effingham,” said Rebecca Rose. “It’s really rewarding to hear visitors tell us of how ‘nice’ the folks are in Guyton, local businesses, and at the Chamber of Commerce. In April we had campers and motor homes here from 32 states.”

Performing this week are The Bluegrass Brothers, Kenny Stinson, Perfect Tyme, The Old Time Way, Constant Change Band, The Golden Valley Crusaders, Grass Line, and others. Also, there will be a special performance by the Rose family’s Lonesome Whistle Band, which hosts the festivals.

“We have an ‘open stage’ time set aside each day for our local performers and others who simply play for pleasure,” said Allen Lanier. “You don’t have to camp at the park to enjoy the music and facility. We welcome day traffic. We encourage all to bring lawn chairs.”

Full five-day festival tickets are $40; daily tickets are $20. Young people ages 12-15 are half price and under 12 are free. There are no additional parking or other fees.

The festival begins at 6 p.m. on Wednesday with a covered dish supper, followed by a “free” show on stage, and from noon-10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, ending at 8:30 a.m. Sunday morning with an inspirational message and gospel music presentation by Wayne Alday and Tommy Hall and Friends.

“Bring your lawn chairs and the kids and kick back and enjoy a safe family-oriented, alcohol-free event this Memorial Day week at our 30th bluegrass festival,” Rose said. “I know you’ll be glad you did.”

The park is located at 533 Old Louisville Road in Guyton. Golf carts, bicycles, and pets are welcome and the area is well lit and has a number of additional conveniences for visitors.

Call772-5142 or772-3467, or visit www.mossyoakmusicpark for additional information on this and upcoming Park events.