Carson Peters is no stranger to headlining a big stage.

The 12-year-old fiddler from Piney Flats, along with the Carson Peters Fiddlin’ Band, will headline the second day of ‘Music in the Park’ on Thursday for the 50th annual Covered Bridge Celebration beginning at 8 p.m.

“We’ve had a chance to play there the last three or four years,” Peters said. “It’s one of my favorite shows and I’m really looking forward to it.”

The musical gene has sent Peters all across the country, recently showcasing his talent to a national audience performing on the Little Big Shots television show, hosted by Steve Harvey on NBC in May – where he was interviewed and performed “Blue Moon of Kentucky”.

Even with the traveling and various venues, Peters said he liked staying in the area for the local event.

“I love it,” Peters said. “My mom (Robin) and dad (Jamie) get a chance to see people they went to school with and I get see my friends. It’s always a fun time.”

Carson is backed up by some talented performing, he added. The Fiddlin’ Band is comprised of Tom and Bobbie Dier, who play bass, mandolin and banjo, and Jamie – backing up his son on guitar.

While going through the lineup for the 50th year of the Covered Bridge Celebration, Elizabeth White, with the Chamber of Commerce, knew it was an obvious choice to bring in Peters.

“We are huge fans of Carson,” she said. “We’re excited that he’ll be here. He’ll be headlining for the first time this year for us.”

The schedule will continue to stay busy over the months, Carson said. Along with a busy baseball schedule, the band has multiple shows lined up during June and July. One of the most exciting trips Carson is looking forward to is a trip to Nashville on June 24, where the band will perform at the Grand Ole Opry.

“It’s going to be fun,” Carson said. “I’m really looking forward to it.”

For those in attendance Thursday that haven’t had a chance to hear the band play, Carson added the individuals will be in for a fun night.

“We’re going to be playing different kinds of music,” he said. “Gospel, bluegrass … it’s going to be a good night.”

For more information the Bluff City local, visit fiddlincarsonpeters.com for a schedule of his upcoming performances and other information.

Along with the Carson Peters Fiddlin’ Band, attendees can expect Covered Bridge Park to have soulful music through the air beginning at 5:30 p.m. with three acts on the docket.

John Curtis Goad will be the opening act and play until 6:30 p.m. After Goad’s performance, the Appalachian Trail Bluegrass Band will perform from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Merchandise for each performer will be available during the night.

Thursday’s ‘Music in the Park’ is sponsored by Carter County Bank.