Witchstock Music Festival

I realize that it’s a bit early to be talking about a July event but a recent commenter asked if Salem had music other than jazz so I had to put the word out.

Lately there have been some great jazz vocalists and bands playing in Salem so they have garnered a few write ups and some insider picks on the Weekend Warrior (what to do this weekend) posts. Salem’s musical offerings are of a much broader spectrum than only jazz. On any given week you can find hip-hop, experimental, dance/pop, R&B, rock, folk, blue grass, punk and soon to be goth shows around town.

Taking the musical ball and running with it, the Witchstock Music Festival is now entering it’s fifth year as one of the premier summer music events around.

From their myspace page:

WITCHSTOCK is a FREE, all ages, outdoor music festival founded in 2004 by myself (Madison) and Scott (The 80’s Man) which takes place every July at the Salem Willows shell stage overlooking the harbor…Salem, Massachusetts…designed to spotlight local, musical talent and enjoy a beautiful venue!

This summer 2008: 5th Annual Witchstock Date: Saturday July 5th (4TH OF JULY WEEKEND!!) (Raindate on the 12th) Hours: 2PM - 10PM (We Extended the hours this summer into the night so we can do a light show!) We are showcasing 8 bands from Boston, New Hampshire, New Jersey, and North Shore Area favorites!! Also…It’s an all ages show!! So there will be some free, fun stuff for the kiddies in the earlier part of Witchstock(2pm -4pm), face painting, temporary tattoos!….and some free stuff for the adults in the later hours as well.

If you are interested in being part of the action Madison is looking for some volunteers. You can contact her via the Witchstock myspace profile. If you just want to come and enjoy the music I suggest you come early, bring your chair-in-a-bag or blanket and get a nice spot where you will be comfortable for the long haul. Also this year, the fun doesn’t stop at 10PM. Dodge Street Bar and Grille will continue the extravaganza till 1am. And if I know anything about Salem in the summer - there will be a kickin’ after party till the sun comes up on Sunday morning.

Stay tuned for more info on this great event as it comes in.