For the third year in a row, the Eastern Kentucky mountain town of Pikeville was home to the Mountain Grrl Experience. It's a unique art and music event designed to promote the creativity and artistry of Appalachian women in a supportive environment.
The all-female bluegrass band, Coaltown Dixie was one of the live music groups performing on a large outdoor stage in downtown Pikeville. On a warm June evening, hundreds of people soaked in the music at tables topped with large blue umbrellas.
Kris Preston plays mandolin with Coaltown Dixie and is the co-organizer of the three-day event. She said the Mountain Grrl Experience is a weekend of music, art, workshops, and culture right here in eastern Kentucky to celebrate the creativity and strength of Appalachian women.
