After winning a Keeping the Blues Alive Award from the Blues Foundation in Memphis, Tennessee last year, the Briggs Farm Blues Festival proved once again why it’s deserving of those accolades at its 21st annual event on Thursday, July 5 through Sunday, July 8.
With perfect weather and a strong lineup showcasing the diversity of blues, rock, gospel, and soul music, the festival broke attendance records over the Fourth of July weekend by featuring national acts like Amy Helm, Mike Farris & The Roseland Rhythm Review, Selwyn Birchwood, JJ Thames & The Violet Revolt, Samantha Fish, The National Reserve, Vanessa Collier, Shawn Holt & The Teardrops, Swampcandy, Amanda Fish Band, and Ursula Ricks alongside regional musicians like MiZ, Ed Randazzo, Teddy Young & The Aces, The Mighty Susquehannas, Dustin Arbuckle & The Damnations, Launch PAD, Gabe Stillman Band, and the 3rd St. Blues Band.
The 250-year-old family farm in Nescopeck manages to feel like a small backyard party and a huge destination festival at the same time, drawing over 10,000 fans every year from all over the country and sometimes other parts of the world. Serving fresh food next to crafty vendors, hayrides, and a “Back Porch” side stage, all generations can enjoy this timeless music in an era where practically everything is owned and operated by big corporations, particularly in the music business.
It’s no wonder so many call the Briggs Farm Blues Festival the “best weekend of the year.”
See NEPA Scene’s photos from the 2017 festival here and the 2016 festival here.
Photos by Robb Malloy and Tammy Heid-Malloy/Moon’s Eye Media/NEPA Scene
