For 22 years the Gladstone Area Chamber, in partnership with the City of Gladstone, have worked to bring in well-known Blues artists to the Northland. It had originally started as a BBQ and Blues Festival in Central Park in Gladstone. In June 1997, the BBQ was dropped and the venue was moved to Oak Grove Park.
In the years following that move, this outdoor event of music and food has been enjoyed over a two day period, rain or shine. The most notable performers from years past have been Shirley King – who is the daughter of BB King: Charlie Musselwhite: Tab Benoit and Kelley Hunt.
To make this festival a success, many volunteer hours are needed before and during the event. Amy Harlin, the President of the Gladstone Chamber, oversees that two day weekend with the help of Bluesfest Co-chairs Tom Frisby and Sid Robbins. Frisby and Robbins have headed up the festival’s committee since 2012.
For 2018, several Blues artists are returning from past years.
Friday lineup: Taylor Smith Band, Nace Brothers and the headliner is Mud Morganfield. Music starts at 6 pm.
Saturday lineup: Jason Vivone & Sam Platt, The BelAirs, and the headliners are Fast Johnny Ricker and Larry Garner. Music starts at 4 pm.
Come enjoy the music, food and cold drinks.
Gladstone Summertime Bluesfest will be held at Oak Grove Park in Gladstone, Missouri on June 1 & 2, 2018. Friday from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Saturday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.. Parking is $5 and there is a suggested donation of $5 at the entrance. Bring blankets and lawn chairs for seating. The park will open 1 hour before the music starts.
For directions or more information, visit www.gladstonechamber.com, and also check out the Gladstone Summertime Bluesfest page on Facebook.
