The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, an internationally acclaimed band for more than 50 years, will headline the Strawberry Festival in a free concert for the public.

The band, formed in 1966, rose to far-reaching praise for its blend of bluegrass, country and rock ‘n’ roll music through the years, including the iconic “Mr. Bojangles” in the 1970s.

Wildly popular as an opening act or headline performance, the band has long featured gifted musicians who have turned out energetic live performances and critically acclaimed records since 1966.

Among the band’s hits were “House On Pooh Corner,” “Some of Shelly’s Blues,” among others, as well as one of the most dynamic performances of “Rocky Top” ever recorded.

The band has toured the world many times and been nominated and won numerous awards over a 53-year career.