Blue Ridge Turns 15 Years of Blues and Barbecue Into Help for Local Kids
Five blues acts, barbecue vendors and a community cause come together in downtown Blue Ridge this Saturday.
Downtown Blue Ridge is about to trade its usual Saturday rhythm for a full day of blues, barbecue and community gathering.
The 15th annual Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival takes over Downtown Blue Ridge City Park on Saturday, September 19. It is the kind of event that gives North Georgia’s music scene much of its character: a local downtown, a family-friendly outdoor setting, live performers throughout the day and plenty of reasons to linger long after the first song begins.
Gates open at 11:30 a.m., with music running from noon until 9 p.m. Adult admission is $20, and children 12 and younger are admitted free.
A Full Day of Blues
Five acts are scheduled across the afternoon and evening, creating an easy way to make a whole day of it or arrive in time for a favorite performer.
12:00 to 1:00 p.m.: Breaking Point
1:30 to 3:00 p.m.: Leo Belsky Blues Band
3:30 to 5:00 p.m.: The Big Dogs
5:30 to 7:00 p.m.: Cara Grainger
7:30 to 9:00 p.m.: Emanuel Casablanca
The lineup gives the festival a real sense of progression, starting with an afternoon set and building toward an evening headliner. It is an opportunity to hear touring and regional blues musicians in a setting that feels very different from a theater or large amphitheater.
More Than a Festival Stop
The Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival is also raising money for local children’s charities. That community purpose is what gives the event a deeper connection to the town than a standard concert listing.
Visitors get a day of live music and barbecue in the center of Blue Ridge. The festival, in turn, directs support back toward children and families in Fannin County. That is a good reminder that some of North Georgia’s most memorable music events are built around more than ticket sales or a headliner.
Plan Before You Go
The festival is at Downtown Blue Ridge City Park, near West Main and First Street. Organizers list free parking, concessions and public restrooms.
Because this is an outdoor event, plan for an afternoon and evening outside. Pets, coolers and smoking are not permitted. Barbecue will be available for purchase from vendors.
If you have time to make a weekend of it, Friday includes two related ticketed events: the Blues Train & Block Party and BBQ at Old Toccoa Farm. But Saturday is the centerpiece, with music, food and a full downtown crowd gathered around one shared stage.
For tickets, details and updates, visit the official Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival page.
Schedules can change. Please confirm details with the festival before heading out.
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