JACKSON - Rhythm of the River Music Festival is kicking off on Friday with the country music of Lonesome Ron.
But country isn’t the only genre that attendees will hear this weekend. One of the festival’s goals is “to expose festival goers to new music … and styles of music,” and the committee is meeting that goal by offering a wide variety of music, from jazz and rock to polka.
“There’s really a little bit of everything for everyone,” said Hanna Rossow, the festival’s president.
The Rhythm of the River committee keeps its mission statement close to heart, which is the reason why it is a free event. There have been many improvements from last year, including the expansion of the festival grounds and more art and food vendors.
Another goal for the festival is “to gather friends, family and neighbors in a multigenerational setting,” and this year there will be more for the youngest attendees. Jackson Center for the Arts will offer various children’s activities, including making fairy gardens and a costume parade. Kids can make their own costumes and showcase them while marching on the stage.
“All the children’s activities are new and exciting,” Rossow said.
The younger members of the community will also have an opportunity to listen to a special kids music session done by Gallimaufry.
Everyone is invited to experience music, art and community at the Rhythm of the River Music Festival.
“We do it to bring family together, and to promote Jackson. It’s a fun place to be,” Rossow said.
A schedule of events, taking place on two stages in Ashley Park, follows:
Friday Main Stage
5:30 to 6:45 p.m., Ellis
7:45 to 9 p.m., Patty and the Buttons
9:30 to 11 p.m., King of the Tramps
5 to 7 p.m., Jackson Center for the Arts children’s activities
Friday Wing Stage
5 to 5:30 p.m., Lonesome Ron
6:45 to 7:45 p.m., Gallimaufry (Children’s music)
Saturday Main Stage
4 to 5 p.m., Undercover
5:30 to 6:45 p.m., Joe & Vicki Price
7:30 to 9 p.m.. Jillian Rae Band
9:30 to 11 p.m., Mikel Wright & the Wrongs
4 to 7 p.m., Gayle’s Gardens
4 to 7 p.m., Jackson Center for the arts children’s activities
Saturday Wing Stage
5 to 5:30 p.m., Crosswaves
6:45 to 7:15 p.m., John Swanson
7:15 to 7:30 p.m., Costume Parade
