Dance Into the Magic: The Great Blue Heron Music Festival 2024

Dance Into the Magic: The Great Blue Heron Music Festival 2024

By: Aryonna Richard

Dancing Into Their Fourth Decade
The 2024 Great Blue Heron Music Festival Will Take
Place in Sherman, NY, on July 5, 6, and 7

Sherman, NY – The 2024 Great Blue Heron Music Festival dances into its fourth decade of
music and community at The Heron Farm & Event Center over Independence Day weekend:
Friday, July 5, through Sunday, July 7. Over 30 bands including Donna the Buffalo, Sam
Bush, Rubblebucket, Couch, The Town Pants, Jimkata and Driftwood, will perform on three
stages.

Weekend activities include instrument and dance workshops, food and craft vendors,
swimming on a lifeguarded beach, biking, hiking, and daily activities for kids, teens, and
seniors.

Tickets are on sale now, with walk-in woods camping included in the price of admission.
Three and four-day camping passes for RVs and tent sites next to your vehicle are available
for an additional fee. One-day tickets are available for Saturday and Sunday. Details at
greatblueheron.com

Following the festival’s 30th anniversary last summer, the Great Blue Heron Festival is
looking toward a bright future. One of the ways forward is the launching of a new, larger stage
deep in the woods. “We’ve had other events on the property that have set up a stage in this
area and it’s been awesome,” says Julie Rockcastle, one of the founders of the festival. “This
new space allows more room for bigger bands and a larger audience.”

The new stage is just one of several big improvements designed to enhance the experience
for the thousands of music fans who return to the Great Blue Heron Music Festival each year.
Production and lighting upgrades at the main stage and the big top dance tent are also
underway.

While live music is the centerpiece, the festival offers plenty of activities for the whole family.
Discover how to make music at an instrument workshop, or learn new steps with an
instructor-led dance lesson. There is also a full slate of creative activities for young children
and teens, a new space for the spirited drum circle, and a lifeguard-protected sandy beach on
the spring-fed pond for a cool swim on a warm summer’s day. And there’s no need to cook,
because there will be plenty of great options for food and drink, including a coffee bar, plus
local beer and wine.

Festival favorites Donna the Buffalo have been a key part of the Blue Heron repertoire since
year one, and they are back again with their highly danceable blend of groovy, continental
roots rock. They’ll be sharing the stage with International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame
inductee Sam Bush, who was nominated for a Grammy this year for his latest album, Radio
John: The Songs of John Hartford. This will be Sam’s first appearance at the festival,
alongside the debut of Brooklyn’s always artful Rubblebucket, the improvisational rock of
NYC’s Stolen Gin, the magically soulful sounds of Joclyn and the Sweet Compression,
Montreal’s Cajun-zydeco band Le Winston, and Cool Cool Cool: a fiery nine-piece funk band
featuring former members of Turkuaz. Back by popular demand is the irrepressible maritime
madness of Vancouver’s The Town Pants, the comfy “pop with a twist” sounds of Boston’s
Couch, the thrilling electro-rock of Jimkata, and Binghamton’s song-driven folk-rockers
Driftwood. Other familiar names include reggae ambassadors Giant Panda Guerilla Dub
Squad, Jim Donovan’s Sun King Warriors, North Carolina’s raucous Tan & Sober Gentlemen,
and West Virginia’s Rasta Rafiki.

For tickets and information about the Great Blue Heron Music Festival:

www.greatblueheron.com
CONNECT:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theheron/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/blueheronfest
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/blueheronfestival

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More info on the farm store, lodging, and gatherings at the Heron Farm & Event Center:

theheron.org

Questions? Contact: Julie Rockcastle, Phone: 716-753-0371, Email: info@theheron.org

Interested in attending Great Blue Heron 2024 as working media?
Please contact info@theheron.org with “Media Request” in the subject line.

 

 

 

Experience the Ultimate Phish Dick’s After Parties at Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom

Experience the Ultimate Phish Dick’s After Parties at Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom

By: Aryonna Richard

Phish’s legendary Labor Day Weekend shows return to Dick’s Sporting Goods Park this summer from August 29 through September 1. The music doesn’t have to stop when the park lights go out. Live For Live Music and Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom are thrilled to present four nights of electrifying after-parties that will keep you grooving all night long.

From funk legends to Grateful Dead grassy grooves, the lineup boasts an impressive array of talent each night, ensuring the high energy and ecstatic vibes continue well into the wee hours. This is the ultimate spot for music enthusiasts, the local Denver community, and festival-goers looking to extend their Phish experience with even more live music.

Night-by-Night Breakdown

August 29 – The Phunk Sessions

Take part in a funk-fueled jam session featuring iconic bassist George Porter Jr. of The Meters, Ivan Neville of Dumpstaphunk, Eric Krasno of Soulive, and members of the unshakeably groovy band Lettuce – Adam Deitch and Adam “Shmeeans” Smirnoff, along with Dumpstaphunk’s Tony Hall. The funk doesn’t quit as DJ Airwolf takes over on The Other Side, keeping the beats coming.

August 30 – Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass

Join the genre-defying Keller Williams as he presents Grateful Grass, featuring rollicking bluegrass renditions of Grateful Dead classics in collaboration with The HillBenders. Dance away to a grassier side of Dead tunes, accompanied again by DJ Airwolf on The Other Side, ensuring your musical appetite is well satiated.

August 31 – Bone Diggers: Paul Simon Dance Jams

Get ready to feel the rhythm with Bone Diggers, an ensemble dedicated to exploring the danceable side of Paul Simon’s rich catalog. A talented lineup, including Reed Mathis (Billy & The Kids), Lebo (ALO), Steve Adams (ALO), and other special guests, ensures a night of unforgettable jams. The party rolls on with Flying Mojito Bros, providing their unique blend of tunes on The Other Side.

September 1 – Purple Party: A Tribute To Prince

Wrap up your weekend with the Purple Party, a night dedicated to the incredible music of Prince. With a star-studded lineup featuring Isaac Teel, Garret Sayers, and members of both The Motet and Turkuaz, this is a fitting end to an amazing run of shows. Don’t miss Flying Mojito Bros on The Other Side, as they set the perfect backdrop for the night with their eclectic music selection.

Get Your Tickets Now!

Don’t miss out on the highest caliber of music filling the air in Denver’s locally-loved venue, Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom. Tickets go on sale Friday, June 7 at 10 AM MT!

The after-parties at Cervantes are an institution among Phish fans, a place where the community comes together to celebrate and express their shared love for captivating music and vibrant nightlife. Each night offers something different, promising a fresh, unforgettable experience for all who attend. Don’t just hear about these epic after-parties—be part of the legend this Labor Day Weekend. Join us at Cervantes and keep the good times rolling!

Soulful Melodies Meet Mountain Views at Rhythms on The Rio Music Festival

Soulful Melodies Meet Mountain Views at Rhythms on The Rio Music Festival

By: Aryonna Richard

If live music reverberating through stunning mountain ranges, and the tranquil melody of the mighty Rio Grande River sounds like the perfect summer symphony, then you’re in for a treat. Blackspy Marketing is proud to announce support for the 2024 Rhythms on the Rio Music Festival, set against the backdrop of the San Luis Valley in Del Norte, Colorado. 

Prepare to experience a unique blend of genres, a scenic locale, and the essence of community at Rhythms on the Rio—an experience that is sure to strike a chord with any festival enthusiast or music lover.

The Heartbeat of Rhythms on the Rio

Rhythms on the Rio is more than just a music festival; it’s a celebration of the rich cultural tapestry weaved through the sounds of bluegrass, funk, reggae, and country music. What sets this festival apart from the rest is its deep-rooted commitment to its community. The South Fork Music Association, the driving force behind Rhythms on the Rio, is a non-profit entity that uses its funds to stage live music concerts for the entire family and promote music education for children. It’s an embodiment of how music can be a catalyst for change and growth.

The Lineup – A Harmonious Gathering

The festival’s organizers have a knack for curating a diverse lineup that appeals to a broad audience while maintaining a unique identity. This year’s festival features The California Honeydrops, Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country, ALO, The Lil Smokies, ShadowGrass, Diggin Dirt, The Fretliners, Armchair Boogie, and Cousin Curtiss, with additional artist announcements dropping soon! This eclectic mix of national and local talent ensures that each festival edition is a new adventure in music discovery.

The range of music is matched only by the scenic beauty of the festival grounds. The Del Norte site offers an oasis of shade trees and sprawling fields. The Rio Grande River’s accessibility further adds an element of serenity and adventure, with opportunities for water sports or simply soaking in nature’s grandeur.

Planning Your Rhythms Adventure

Attending the Rhythms on the Rio Music Festival is not simply about adding another event to your calendar; it’s a commitment to a unique and soul-enriching experience. Below, we have tips to help you prepare. 

  • Secure your tickets early; this festival’s popularity continues rising and passes sell out quickly.
  • Plan your accommodation. 
  • Prepare for various weather conditions, as the San Luis Valley can be unpredictable; layered clothing and good footwear are a must.
  • Engage with the local community and immerse yourself in the area’s various activities.
  • Most importantly, bring an open heart and mind, ready to get lost in the magic of Rhythms on the Rio.

The Rhythms on the Rio Music Festival encapsulates the soul of music, the essence of community, and the beauty of nature in a way that few other events can. Stay tuned to Blackspy’s social media accounts, where we will share additional information about the festival as the event approaches.

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Annapolis Baygrass Festival Where Music Meets Meaning

Annapolis Baygrass Festival Where Music Meets Meaning

By: Aryonna Richard

Nestled against the picturesque backdrop of the Chesapeake Bay, the Annapolis Baygrass Festival has emerged as a beacon of progressive bluegrass, jamgrass, and Americana music. This unique festival promises an auditory feast for the soul and champions the vital causes of environmental conservation and mental health awareness. If you’re a festival-goer with a penchant for toe-tapping bluegrass rhythms or an enthusiast eager to support meaningful causes, the 2024 Annapolis Baygrass Festival happening on September 21 & 22nd is your sanctuary.

A Lineup That Echoes Through the Bay

The festival proudly presents an ensemble of musical virtuosos that span the spectrum of bluegrass and Americana. Headlined by Oteil & Friends, featuring legends like Oteil Burbridge, Melvin Seals, and Steve Kimock, the stage will be graced by the harmonic convergence of talents such as The Infamous Stringdusters, Leftover Salmon, Sam Bush, and Sierra Hull. 

The lineup doesn’t stop there; it dives deeper into the soulful realms of bluegrass with Kitchen Dwellers, Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country, and Cris Jacobs & Friends. Bands like Trouble No More, The Lil Smokies and The Dirty Grass Players promise to deliver performances that resonate with the spirit of Annapolis and beyond. Adding to the festival’s allure are the Artists-at-Large, including Jennifer Hartswick, Natalie Cressman, and Ron Holloway, who will sprinkle their magic across the stage, ensuring the festival’s air is always filled with musical surprises.

Every Jam Saves the Bay

The Annapolis Baygrass Music Festival stands for more than just a gathering of music lovers. It represents a commitment to the environment and mental health. With the Chesapeake Bay at its heart, the festival employs an innovative approach to education and fun, blending immersive workshops and information booths. By joining the festivities, you’re not just signing up for an unforgettable musical experience but contributing to a more significant cause. Your participation in the Baygrass Festival aids in the protection and restoration of this critical body of water, impacting over 19 million people across six states within the Chesapeake Bay Watershed and supporting more than 3,600 species of flora and fauna.

An Invitation to the Heart of Annapolis

The 2024 Annapolis Baygrass Festival is more than an event; it’s a movement. It’s a call to music lovers and environmental advocates to come together for a cause transcending mere entertainment. It’s an opportunity to experience the rich tapestry of bluegrass music, learn about the importance of conservation and sustainability, and contribute to our planet’s well-being and minds. Prepare to immerse yourself in the soul-stirring rhythms of bluegrass, the beauty of the Chesapeake Bay, and the warmth of a community united for a cause. Your soul will thank you, and so will the Bay. 

Both GA and VIP tickets are available for purchase. Stay tuned to Blackspy’s social media profiles, where we will share more information about the event as we approach the Annapolis Baygrass Festival. 

 

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Spark Creativity and Connection at the 2024 Lightning in a Bottle Festival

Spark Creativity and Connection at the 2024 Lightning in a Bottle Festival

By: Aryonna Richard

With a blend of music, art, workshops, and sustainability initiatives, this year’s Lightning in a Bottle Festival is a testament to the power of community and the spirit of transformation. The heartbeat of the event is undoubtedly its eclectic music lineup, and 2024 is no exception with its legendary mix of artists transcending genres and waiting to take the stage from May 22nd – 27th at Buena Vista Lake, Bakersfield, CA. 

Lightning in a Bottle Festival caters to diverse musical tastes, from pulsating electronic beats to soul-stirring live performances. Attendees will find themselves swept away by the sounds of both established artists and rising stars, with stages adorned by mesmerizing visuals and immersive art installations. 

Get ready to be electrified by headliners like Skrillex, Labrinth, Lane 8, James Blake, and M.I.A., as they deliver dynamic sets that will leave you breathless. Whether you’re dancing under the stars on the main stage or exploring the festival’s hidden nooks, you’ll be united with fellow music lovers in a shared journey of discovery and excitement 

Lightning in a Bottle goes beyond music, offering a rich tapestry of opportunities for personal growth and exploration. From mindfulness and meditation to yoga and movement, the festival’s workshops and talks will inspire and empower. The magic of LIB extends far beyond the dance floor! 

At its core, LIB celebrates community. A community of artists, vendors, performers, musicians, teachers, thought leaders, and volunteers come from far and wide to create a space for connection, exploration, and discovery. You’ll meet new friends, hang with old ones, and most importantly have the best experiences of your life when you purchase tickets to Lightning in a Bottle! The festival offers GA and VIP 3-day and 5-day options for attendees and various camping passes and accommodations. 

Every festival pass includes free tent camping. For those looking for a more elevated experience, VIP offers amenities like private lounges, air-conditioned restrooms, phone charging stations, more.

Stay tuned to Blackspy’s social media where we will share more details about the event leading up to the return of LIB over Memorial Day weekend! 

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2024 Rise and Vibes May 10-12 at Tico Time Resort Lineup Announcement

2024 Rise and Vibes May 10-12 at Tico Time Resort Lineup Announcement

By: Aryonna Richard

Blackspy is excited to announce the 2024 Rise & Vibes lineup on May 10-12 at Tico Time RV River Resort, just south of Durango, Colorado! In case you didn’t know, Tico Time River Resort is the only Costa Rican-inspired resort in the United States! It’s the perfect place to relax, have fun, and enjoy the best of Roots and Reggae, Rockin’ on the River.

Save the date so you can attend this annual music and camping festival that unfolds within the natural beauty of the Animas River Valley —between Aztec, NM, and Durango, CO, in the heart of one of the most breathtaking parts of Colorado and New Mexico.

Headliners include Steel Pulse, who recently released their twelfth studio production, Mass Manipulation (Rootfire Cooperative), which reflects four decades committed to bettering humanity through music. Steel Pulse’s musical stance and conceptualizations are as potent and relevant today as they were at the beginning of their career; you don’t want to miss the chance to see these reggae legends at Rise and Vibe. 

Tribal Seeds is an award-winning San Diego, California, reggae band known for their spiritually driven, refreshing rock vibe. Tribal Seeds doesn’t just deliver music; they convey love, unity, and social consciousness messages. Their lyrics tackle various topics, from personal introspection to societal issues.  

In the world of reggae music, one artist stands out for his soulful voice, infectious melodies, and ability to transport listeners to the idyllic islands of the Pacific. J Boog is a reggae sensation whose music has been making waves globally, captivating audiences with his unique blend of reggae, R&B, and island vibes.

The lineup also includes Beats Antique, The Elovators, Porangui, Wookiefoot, Perfect Giddimani, Free Creators, and many other talented artists! 

INCLUDED IN YOUR FESTIVAL TICKET…

  • 3-days of live music 
  • walk-in riverside camping
  • over 25 performances
  • beach with great swimming
  • stand-up paddle boards
  • water slide
  • inner tube slide
  • beach volleyball court
  • hiking trails
  • access to over 82 acres of the Tico Time Riverside Resort 

Stay tuned to Blackspy’s social media accounts, where we will share more information about the festival as we move closer to the event. 

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