Though it is only Halloween, we are already gearing up for the 2009 festival season. Doc Watsons annual MerleFest will take place at Wilkesboro, NCs Wilkes Community College from April 23-26, featuring a whos who of roots, country, bluegrass and Appalachian musicians. In addition to the events host, this years lineup includes Sam Bush, Del McCoury Band, Emmylou Harris, Travis Tritt and Jerry Douglas The Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band, Ralph Stanley, Jim Lauderdale, Bearfoot, Donna The Buffalo, Tift Merritt, The Greencards, Blue Highway, The John Cowan Band, The Duhks, Great Big Sea and The Waybacks, among many, many more. As in years past, one can also expect a number of intriguing collaborations throughout the weekend.