Only 10 days to go! The 16th Annual Honesdale Roots & Rhythm Music & Arts Festival kicks off on Saturday, June 17, 2023, beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Main Street and ending in Central Park around 9 p.m. This free one-day music and art extravaganza traditionally draws upwards of 7,500 people into Honesdale for the weekend.
A family-friendly, all-day event, Roots & Rhythm features both local and national bands and offers a diverse range of genres from country to rock to blues. Attendees can also browse Artist’s Row, choose from many food venues and visit an area dedicated to entertaining and enlightening children’s activities.
The downtown bands launch the festival, performing at multiple locations, saturating Main Street with music from one end to the other. After they sign off at 1pm, the music transitions to Honesdale’s picturesque Central Park and the Main Stage.
The Main Stage entertainment will commence at 1:30 p.m. with the mesmerizing sounds of Mark DeRose & The Dreadnaughts. Prepare to be enthralled by their engaging performance.
Next up: The 40 Acre Mule, delivering a blend of vintage Rock & Roll, Rhythm & Blues, Soul, and Country influences that will have the audience rocking along.
Around 5:30 p.m., Rick Estrin & the Night Cats will captivate with their harmonica mastery and soulful vocals, paying homage to the legends of Rhythm & Blues.
And finally, at 8:00 p.m., the highly anticipated performance by Reggie King Sears will close the night. Known for his soulful Funky Blues sound and the ability to blend various styles into a unique Rhythm and Blues fusion, Sears is sure to leave the audience in awe.
Don’t miss out on the exciting Late Night Ramble at the Here & Now Brewing Company located at 645 Main Street, beginning at 10 p.m. featuring The 40 Acre Mule. This event promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Returning for its 12th year, the Tunes & Tales tent for kids will be located “on the green” in front of Central United Methodist Church, on Church Street between 10th and 11th Streets. Opening at 1:00 p.m. and closing at 4 p.m., this area will provide delightful entertainment for young music and arts enthusiasts.
9th Street will once again be transformed into a hub of artistic expression, showcasing talented artists and artisans. From jewelers to painters, authors to photographers, a variety of skilled individuals will exhibit their wares for sale.
The Honesdale Roots & Rhythm Music & Arts Festival is an all-volunteer event sponsored by dozens of generous local businesses. The committee behind the planning thanks the sponsors and invites everyone to come on out on June 17th and enjoy!
Photo: Rick Estrin and the Night Cats, performing at Honesdale Roots & Rhythm Music & Arts Festival June 17th.
Lisa Champeau