The lineup for the 15th annual free (and freewheeling) Hardly Strictly Bluegrass festival is, true to its name, fairly genre-bending. On October 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, the following artists are taking over Golden Gate Park in Hellman Hollow (named for the festival's founder and banjo-picking billionaire benefactor) and Mark and Lindley Meadows.

An eclectic group of acts if there ever was one, the lineup was released yesterday on the festival website. That follows weeks of little teasers in which artists were revealed in batches. It is definitely a lot to digest, but have a look. Many we knew would return — from Emmylou Harris to Boz Scaggs — and we've also got a few returners but not-quite-regulars to get excited about, such as Neko Case and the Punch Brothers.

Inevitably this whole thing has snuck up on you! It's almost time to start packing that picnic basket — may I recommend a blanket and a little moonshine (that's not in a glass container)?