Tampa Bay Blues Fest

Tampa Bay is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for the best in blues music.  Every year since 1995, the Tampa Bay Blues Festival in St. Petersburg, Florida attracts some of the world’s finest blues musicians and music lovers. 

Courtesy: tampabaybluesfest.com

The Vinoy Park on the shores of Tampa Bay is transformed into a huge performance venue for music enthusiasts.  The acres of green grass and tall palm trees create a beautiful tropical setting for the concert.  Guests can relish the lovely Florida spring weather.

The annual showcase of American Blues music plays center stage right on the waterfront.  When evening sets in, bright lights illuminate the stage to accentuate the line-up of blues performers.

This year’s 20th annual festival will feature some of the biggest names in blues music like Buddy Guy, Michael McDonald, Irma Thomas, the Blind Boys of Alabama, and James Hunter.  The concert will also include remarkable talents like Shemaiah Copeland, Coco Montoya, Big Sam’s Funky Nation and Tommy Castro and The Painkillers. The event is going to be like a conglomeration of talented musicians.

The 3-day Tampa Bay Blues Festival will have a kickoff party at the Palladium starting with a documentary titled “Killer B3.” After the short film, there will be a concert featuring organ master, Tony Monaco.  He will perform together with a full band.  It will be followed by a series of performances on the succeeding days.

Visitors can listen to beautiful music while feasting on delectable food such as seafood dishes, barbecue and Cuban cuisine available in the concert grounds.  Guests can also order bottled water, soda, energy drinks, wine, spirits, and premium beer from merchants.  There will be different food vendors and merchandise booths in the park.

Tampa Bay is known for its award-winning arts and crafts.  The Tampa Bay Blues Festival will not only cater to music lovers but also to people who appreciate beautiful arts and crafts such as paintings, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, and more.

Aside from great live entertainment, guests can also check out the establishment at downtown St. Petersburg.  Visitors can enjoy sightseeing and learning about the culture. There are many charmingrestaurants, fashionable boutiques, clubs, and art museums in the area.  One notable museum worth visiting is the renowned Dali Museum.

This 3-day weekend concert is open to blues fans and anyone who loves music. Don’t miss the much anticipated live musical event this coming April by getting your tickets early.  Take note that seating is limited. You can get tickets online, by mail, or at the Palladium Theater.  Special VIP packages are also available for people looking for upgraded viewing experience and complimentary food and drinks. The proceeds of the 3-day event will benefit Pinellas Association for Retarded Children (PARC).  Donations will be greatly appreciated. Guests can drop their donations at “tip” jars found at all of the beer and wine operations. People who will be driving to the event can park in downtown St. Petersburg. Handicap parking is available at the west of the main stage area. Enjoy this once a year musical festival!