Typically occurring in San Francisco’s iconic Golden Gate Park, the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival will be switching gears to provide its attendees a virtual experience in 2020. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 virus, measures were taken to keep the fans, artists, and staff safe, as well as adhering to California’s statewide mandate against large public gatherings, while still producing a high caliber musical and community-focused event. One thing that has never changed, is the custom of this festival to remain free to its attendees. Warren and Chris Hellman initiated the festival as a gift to the City of San Francisco by sharing their love of American Roots music. Celebrating its 20th year, it was important to the Hellman Foundation, who oversees the festival, to maintain their tradition. Part of the celebration broadcast will include new performance footage, archival sets, as well as fan and staff memories from previous festival years.