Inaugural Roadhouse Blues Fest set Aug. 31
A new nonprofit arts organization, the Central Delaware Blues Society, is launching its membership drive with the first musical festival in central Delaware devoted to the vibrant, rocking, soulful music that is the blues.
The Roadhouse Blues Fest will take place from 1 to 8 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 31, at Jonathan’s Landing Course and Clubhouse, 1309 Ponderosa Drive, Magnolia, home to the CDBS. A day full of music, food and fun is in store with both local and national blues artists playing sets all day long.
The gate opens at noon and admission is $15 for the public. CDBS members receive their usual discount, only $10 for the entire event. Join the CDBS that day for the $25 annual membership fee, and attend the Roadhouse Blues Fest for free. Advance tickets are available at www.centraldelawareblues.com/rb2014.
The music schedule includes Johnny and Zep at 1 p.m., lower case blues at 2:30 p.m., Eric Steckel at 4:30 p.m., and Chris Duarte at 6 p.m.
Food and drink vendors will be on site; kids are welcome accompanied by an adult and if under 12, get in free. No pets are allowed. Lawn chairs, blankets, hats and sunscreen are strongly encouraged. No glass containers, alcohol or outside food allowed. The event is rain or shine, and the music will be moved into the clubhouse if it rains, though seating may be limited and will be first come, first served. The facility is friendly to those who have disabilities, and there are ramps providing egress to accessible restrooms.
Outdoor vendor space is available for this event. Cost is $20, and vendors are responsible for providing their own setup, tables, chairs, tents, etc. Payment must be received prior to the event, and the deadline to reserve vendor space is Wednesday, Aug. 27. More information can be found at www.centraldelawareblues.com/rb2014.html#vendorrb2014.
The Roadhouse Bluesfest promises to make blues lovers of everyone who comes out for an act or the whole day. Becoming a CDBS member is the way to go. Membership is $25 annually and provides a number of benefits, as well as helps support the society’s goal to sponsor a Delaware Blues Act to participate in the International Blues Competition in Memphis, Tenn. Donations are tax-deductible. Joining online is simple and easy at www.centraldelawareblues.com/membership.html. Memberships can also be purchased at any CDBS event at Jonathan’s Landing.
Members receive a 10 percent discount on CDBS merchandise, and drink specials and event discounts. Typical CDBS blues shows have a $10 cover charge, and members pay only $5. Several local businesses are offering discounts for CDBS members on dining and purchases and more businesses join up each month. Popular Dover-area sponsors include the Touchdown Lounge, Tom’s Bull Pen, B&B Music, Simaron Subs and Steaks, the Frankfurt Bakery and June Jam.
For more information and event schedules, go to www.centraldelawareblues.com/index.html.
