Live Music and Wine: Special Occasion Band Coming to Yadkin Valley This May

Yadkin Valley wine country is getting ready to rock this spring. As announced on Eventbrite, the Surry Arts Council will present Special Occasion Band live in concert at Blackmon Amphitheatre on Friday, May 22, 2026, as part of their Summer Concert Series.

For wine lovers planning a trip to the area, this concert presents a perfect opportunity to combine live music with wine tasting at one of the region's most unique wineries. Surry Cellars sits just minutes away in Dobson, offering an ideal pre-show or post-show wine experience.

Why This Concert Matters for Wine Country Visitors

Blackmon Amphitheatre concerts draw visitors from across North Carolina and beyond, making this an excellent time to explore Yadkin Valley's wine scene. The timing works beautifully — you can spend the afternoon wine tasting, grab dinner in the area, then head to the amphitheatre for an evening of live music under the stars.

Special Occasion Band brings an energetic performance that pairs well with the relaxed, educational atmosphere you'll find at nearby Surry Cellars. It's the kind of day that showcases what makes this region special: quality wine, beautiful countryside, and genuine community events.

Make Surry Cellars Part of Your Concert Day

Surry Cellars offers something you won't find at any other Yadkin Valley winery — an academic, hands-on learning experience that gives visitors unique insight into student winemaking processes. Located on the campus of the NC Viticulture Center, this isn't your typical commercial tasting room.

The winery specializes in both traditional and regional wines, with award-winning options like their NC State Fair medal-winning Cabernet Sauvignon and regionally recognized Chardonnay. Their wine lineup spans dry reds and whites, semi-dry whites, sweet whites, and fruit wines, with signature varieties including Seyval Blanc and Muscadine alongside classic Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.

Bottles range from $15-25, making it an accessible stop for concert-goers looking to pick up wine for the evening or take home as souvenirs. The campus setting provides educational vineyard views and rolling Piedmont countryside vistas — perfect for photos before heading to the show.

Planning Your Concert and Wine Day

Surry Cellars is particularly welcoming to first-time wine tasters and students, making it an ideal introduction to Yadkin Valley wine country. Plan for a 1-2 hour visit, which gives you enough time to learn about the winemaking process, taste through their selection, and still have time for dinner before the concert.

The winery is picnic-friendly, so you could even grab supplies in Dobson and enjoy a scenic meal on the grounds. The educational atmosphere means you'll leave knowing more about North Carolina winemaking — knowledge that will enhance visits to other Yadkin Valley wineries.

Concert Day Logistics

While specific ticket information and start times for the Special Occasion Band concert haven't been released yet, summer concerts at Blackmon Amphitheatre typically begin in early evening. This schedule works perfectly for an afternoon wine tasting followed by dinner and the show.

Check the Surry Cellars website for current hours and any special events they might be hosting in conjunction with the concert. The proximity to Blackmon Amphitheatre makes them a natural gathering spot for wine lovers attending the show.

Beyond the Concert: Exploring Yadkin Valley

If you're traveling from out of town for the Special Occasion Band concert, consider extending your stay to explore more of Yadkin Valley wine country. The region offers over 40 wineries, each with its own personality and wine specialties. From intimate family operations to larger estates with full restaurants, there's something for every wine preference and budget.

The rolling hills and scenic backroads make for beautiful drives between wineries, especially in late spring when the vineyards are lush and green. Many visitors find that one concert leads to a full weekend of wine tasting and exploration.

Plan Your Yadkin Valley Wine and Music Adventure

Ready to combine great wine with live music in North Carolina's premier wine region? Plan Your Yadkin Valley Wine Trip with ValleySomm and we'll help you create the perfect itinerary around the Special Occasion Band concert. We'll map out winery visits, suggest the best restaurants for pre-show dinner, and make sure you experience the best of what Yadkin Valley has to offer — all timed perfectly for an unforgettable evening of music at Blackmon Amphitheatre.