written by Alex Rowland
Do you like jam bands? Yes? Well I have the perfect festival for you! On April 20-22, 2017 in Live Oak, Florida there is a gathering of musicians ready to put on a festival that you won’t soon forget. The Spirit of The Suwannee Music Park hosts the 14th annual Wanee Music Festival stacked with talented musicians and a variety of vendors. Widespread Panic, Gov’t Mule, Dark Star Orchestra, Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass, Bob Weir & The Campfire Band and Papadosio are just a few of the bands performing that weekend. There will also be a few special sets throughout the weekend when Leftover Salmon performs the music of Neil Young and Pink Talking Fish and Kung Fu come together to pay tribute to the late David Bowie & Prince.
On top of a stacked lineup, The Spirit of The Suwannee Music Parks offers one of the more beautiful locations to host a music festival. This 700-acre resort provides the perfect location to escape to for a weekend of music and fun. Camping areas are not assigned and include spots along the lake or river, among the trees, or out in an open field. I prefer setting my hammock up in a nice shaded forest. Campfires are also allowed at your camp as long as someone is there to keep it under control. All of the stages and vendors are just a short walk from the camping areas. If the Florida sun becomes too much you can jump into the lake or river to cool off or you can retreat into the woods to find some shade. The resort also provides a general store for basic supplies along with clean water stations and working restrooms. April in Florida means there’s bound to be a few spring showers so make sure you prepare for some rain!
Wanee Music Festival is sure to be an amazing weekend full of talented musicians, beautiful scenery, and friendly people ready to cut loose and have a good time. So what are you waiting for?! Get your three-day ticket (single day tickets are available but who would want to miss out on any of the fun?) and make your way down south for a weekend you won’t soon forget!