Is it possible that a Saturday in Destin could get any better than just another ”day at the beach?” Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation presented the “Bluegrass at the Beach Festival” on Saturday Sept 12, putting a whole new spin on being at the beach. It was a music filled, art filled, family friendly, musical production which appealed to all ages.
The event was a part of the MKAF 20th anniversary celebration held at the beautiful outdoor Cultural Arts Village in Destin. This first ever bluegrass festival in Northwest Florida had an exciting line up of seven local, regional and national acts along with a special appearance by rising star Danielle Yother. The day long event started at 10am lasting into the night with exciting opportunities for everyone until 10pm. Folks had a chance to attend bluegrass themed artist demos, workshops and of course hands on projects for the little concert goers.
Throughout the day several groups performed to include a local favorite Dread Clampitt, all of which lead to this year’s headliner a Tennessee award winning band, Blue Highway, who took the stage close to 8pm. In between performances those in attendance participated in “Pickin & Paintin”, a series of live performances and storytelling and colorful folk art exhibits, to include a dramatic reading of “Meet Smoky Mountain Rose, an Appalachian Cinderella”, presented by he The Emerald Coast Theatre Company. The kids were invited to make their own banjo or try their hand at painting a bluegrass themed picture.
What a great way to spend the day, everyone who attended had a great time, enjoying music, fun and food, and learning a little more about bluegrass and anticipating next year’s festival.
