by Eleanor Qadirah

for the Salisbury Post

We invite you to attend the return of the 16th Annual Rowan Blues and Jazz Festival on Saturday in Salisbury at the Rail Walk Arts District at the corner of N. Lee and Kerr Streets. This family-friendly event is free and open to the public.

This year’s musical performers include Australian-born Peter Harper and Midwest Kind, Beverly “Guitar” Watkins from Atlanta, West End Mambo Latin Jazz Band from Winston-Salem, Joe Robinson of Clemmons and the Stanley Baird Jazz Band of Durham and more.

Musical performances are from 2 until 10:30 p.m.

Gates open at 1:30 for the musical festival. Arrive early and cheer on Mr. Johnson’s Mini Funk Factory Band, consisting of elementary school students as they kick off the music festival with their New Orleans style playing and marching to the main venue. This is a soulful elementary school.

The festival begins with the always popular storytelling festival in tribute to the late storyteller, Jackie Torrence, and facilitated by several members of the North Carolina Association of Black Storytellers, as well as local storytellers.

Since 1999 the well–attended festivals have become signature events for Rowan County residents, attracting visitors from surrounding areas.

Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and cushions and spend the day in Salisbury. There will be food, and arts and crafts vendors for your enjoyment.

Pets and coolers are not allowed into the festival area. VIP seating under the tent is available.

For more information visit www.rowanbluesandjazz.org

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WANT TO GO?

16th annual Blues & Jazz festival

May 16 from 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.

at the Rail Walk Arts District at the corner of N. Lee and Kerr Streets.

Story telling starts at 10:30 a.m. at 405 N . Lee, former Black Box Theater

Music starts at 2 p.m.

Free general admission

$20 VIP tickets include space under large tent and free food and drinks.

www.rowanbluesandjazz.org