The Museum & Center presents this special birthday event each year in celebration of Dr. Stanley's life and work. With a career spanning 61 years in the music business, from the early years of the Stanley Brothers with brother Carter to the present, Ralph Stanley has made an indelible mark upon the music industry. From old-time to bluegrass to country to gospel, Dr. Stanley has influenced countless artists and continues to break new ground in the industry. To celebrate his accomplishments, previous events have featured such well-known performers as Alison Krauss & Dan Tyminski, Porter Wagoner, Larry Sparks, Jim Lauderdale, Marty Raybon, Judy Marshall, and more!

This annual event also serves as an important fundraiser for the Museum & Center and ensures that regional music will be an important part of our area in the years to come. Proceeds from the benefit dinner will allow Museum & Center staff to provide such important programs as the Passing the Pick and Bow Program, the Music Along the Crooked Road Concert Series, the Pickin' Porch jam sessions, the Ralph Stanley Museum Mountain Music Festival, and much more throughout the year.

All proceeds from the benefit dinner will be used to support the Ralph Stanley Museum & Traditional Mountain Music Center, a 501(c)3 private nonprofit organization. No proceeds from the dinner will benefit Dr. Ralph Stanley and family or members of the Museum’s Board of Directors. Additionally, a portion of your ticket price may be tax-deductible, to the extent allowed by law.