Summertime always ings music and outdoor festivals to the area, and this weekend one of Eastport's favorite fests will be in full swing. Eastport a Rockin' showcases over 25 local bands as well as various food vendors, providing a weekend shindig you simply don't want to miss. We spoke with Jessica Palcher, this year's director of the event, to get an idea of what we can expect.
r
What's the history behind Eastport a Rockin?
r
James Borchelt started the festival in the mid-90's as a way to help promote local music and have a good time doing it, while raising money for some good causes. It started out small and has grown over the years, though it's been about the same size for the last 5 or so years - the perfect size for the location.
r
What kind of music is featured at the festival?
r
We feature all kinds of music - folk to rock to blues to funk to bluegrass - each stage is different and each year is different. Because it is such a variety of music, it's hard to pick one band that stands out - they are all great within their genre. The Eastport Oyster Boys has been with the festival every year since it started, and Dean Rosenthal has been there most years. It's always fun to see what the kids from the School of Rock are going to do. And of course the Grilled Lincolns are huge right now in Annapolis (and elsewhere).
r
<To listen to a podcast featuring The Bumpin' Uglies, Annapolis-based ska-reggae heroes, click here.>
r
Are there any attractions for kids? Or is this an adult-themed festival?
r
It is an all ages festival - we love kids! Kids under the age of 12 get in free and there is a great kids area with moon bounce arts and crafts, face
painting, balloon animals and more. It's right by the J stage, so the parents can enjoy great music while the kids have fun too.
r
What kind of food and beverages will be available?
r
We'll have a wide variety of festival foods - gyros, bbq, Thai, Jamaican, shave ice... you name it. Beverage wise, we'll have fruit smoothies, beer (Miller, Yuengling, Flying Dog and more), liquor and wine... something for everyone.
r
Should attendees plan on inging anything with them? Is anything prohibited?
r
Coolers and outside food and beverage are not allowed. Strollers and dogs on leashes are allowed. Bring cash, or an ATM card - all food and drink is ticket only, and cash is needed to buy tickets. Bring your sunscreen - it's going to be a hot one.
r
For more info on Eastport a Rockin, visit eastportarockin.com
