Valdosta's Bluesberry Festival Strikes a Chord for Second Year in a Row

The City of Valdosta proudly announces the successful culmination of its 2nd Annual Bluesberry Festival held at the vibrant Unity Park Amphitheater in Downtown Valdosta. This two-day extravaganza, which took place on Friday, April 19, and Saturday, April 20, brought together the community in celebration of music, food, and fun.

The festival offered a delightful balance of entertainment for attendees of all ages, with an array of delectable food options, engaging activities at the Kid Zone, and an impressive lineup of musical performances.

Friday night set the stage for an unforgettable experience as the crowd was treated to captivating performances by talented artists including Jenny and the Bets, the Evergreen Family Band, the Page Brothers, and Blues Factor. Each act brought their unique flair to the stage, ensuring that every listener found something to groove to.

Saturday continued the festivities with the soulful tunes of the Seth Tucker Trio, Khemisty, and Jacksonville Slim, alongside the electric energy of the Trouble Tones and Dirty Bird and the Flu, and the infectious beats of Sauce Boss all the way from Tallahassee, Florida, who not only delighted taste buds with his homemade gumbo but also serenaded the audience with an eclectic setlist.

The highlight of the evening was the headlining performance by none other than Troy Turner, hailing New Orleans. Turner's mesmerizing performance brought the festival to a triumphant close, leaving the audience craving for more.

Throughout the festival grounds, attendees had the opportunity to support local businesses by purchasing an array of Main Street and Vendor items, contributing to the vibrant spirit of community and commerce.

"The second Annual Bluesberry Festival exceeded all expectations, bringing together the essence of Valdosta's cultural vibrancy," said Main Street Manager Kym Hughes. "We are immensely grateful to all the performers, vendors, and attendees who made this event a resounding success. We look forward to many more years of celebrating music, food, and community in Downtown Valdosta."

In reflection on the festival's success, Mayor Scott James Matheson remarked, "The Bluesberry Festival exemplifies the spirit of Valdosta – vibrant, diverse, and united in celebration. This event serves as a testament to our city's commitment to fostering community engagement and cultural enrichment. I am proud to see the continued success of this festival and look forward to its continued growth in the years to come."

City Manager Richard Hardy added, "The overwhelming response from the community emphasizes the importance of events like the Bluesberry Festival in bringing people together and showcasing the best of what Valdosta has to offer. We are thrilled to see such enthusiastic participation and support, and it inspires us to continue creating unforgettable experiences for our residents and visitors alike."

Assistant City Manager Catherine Ammons echoed the sentiment, stating, "The Bluesberry Festival has become a hallmark event for the City of Valdosta, highlighting our city's energetic cultural landscape and fostering a sense of pride and unity among residents. It's inspiring to see the community come together for such a vivacious celebration, and we are thankful for the opportunity to continue contributing to its success."

The City of Valdosta extends its heartfelt appreciation to all who contributed to the success of the 2nd Annual Bluesberry Festival and invites everyone to mark their calendars for next year's event.