SALISBURY — Happy Roots announced the return of “Earth Day Jam,” a unique farm-to-festival benefit concert dedicated to supporting local nonprofit Happy Roots in its mission to fund school and community garden projects. 

The event will take place on Earth Day, April 20, in Salisbury.

“We are grateful for the generous support of the Rowan Arts Council, which has allowed us to bring an incredible lineup of artists to this year’s event,” Executive Director Ashley Honbarrier said. 

Grammy-nominated Devon Gilfillian, will serve as the headliner.  

Known for his soulful sound and powerful performances, Gilfillian rose through the Nashville ranks. 

His reputation as a live performer grew quickly and his self-released 2016 EP earned him a major-label deal. 

With performances on Kelly Clarkson, Stephen Colbert, CBS, Jimmy Kimmel and sold-out national tours, Gilfillian is sure to captivate the audience and contribute to the success of Happy Roots fundraising efforts. 

Other acts include four-time Grammy-nominated Raleigh-based Yarn, brass-funk-rock band Empire Strikes Brass with Grammy award-winning Debrissa McKinney, teenage bluegrass sensations Carolina Detour and more. 

Catawba College is this year’s title sponsor.   

“Their experience and dedication to environmental initiatives positions them as a leader in sustainability in  the Southeast, perfectly aligning with Earth Day Jam’s mission,” Honbarrier said. “With Catawba College’s involvement, we are confident in our ability to expand our reach and impact, creating a more sustainable future for all.  

“We extend our deepest gratitude to our veteran sponsors, Rockwell Farms, New Sarum Brewing  Company, Shug’s and Miller Davis Agency, for their unwavering support. Rockwell Farms, with 36 acres  of environmentally controlled greenhouse space ranks as the 45th largest grower in the United States,  showcasing their commitment to sustainable agriculture. New Sarum Brewing Company enriches our  event with their locally brewed beer, reinforcing our commitment to community engagement and  sustainability. Shug’s at Brooklyn South Square, known for its vibrant fusion of art, local food and drinks, brings a dynamic cultural experience that exemplifies Earth Day Jam. Miller Davis Agency plays a  crucial role in amplifying our message and raising awareness about Happy Roots’ initiatives. Together,  they exemplify community partnership and mirror Happy Roots’ mission to nurture a healthier, greener community.”

Earth Day Jam features two stages that will deliver a diverse lineup of local, regional and nationally touring artists and more that 70 vendors and educators showcasing unique artisans, eco-friendly products, health and wellness, environmental education, services and resources.

There are incentives for festival goers who bring their own reusable refillable water bottles and help contribute towards zero waste goals.

Earth Day Jam runs 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and is free to the public. A downtown trolley will be available to shuttle festival goers.

A show schedule, vendor map, parking and trolley stop map will be posted on the festival website closer to the event. The Salisbury Train Station is just a few blocks away from the park making it easy to travel NC By Train. 

Destination “Stay & Play” packages will be offered through the Rowan Tourism Authority. A link to purchase and book a lodging package will be available on the festival website.

Happy Roots is a 501c3 nonprofit organization providing nature-based therapeutic and educational services to protect the wellness of the community and the environment through school gardens, community gardens, urban agriculture, horticultural therapy, and environmental stewardship.

To find out how you can get involved with Earth Day Jam and for more information about our lineup and environmental educators, go to www.earthdayjamnc.com.