35 Years of Bliss

July 2, 2015

Few knew that the little music fundraiser started by Jim Gillespie back in 1981 would turn into the mega-event it is today. It’s a summer highlight for many local music fans… and for plenty of visitors, some who make the trek north specifically for the festival from all over the country. Blissfest’s stages welcome folk and roots music of endless subgenres to the Bliss Festival Farm, where music and rustic camping meet – and they’ve somehow manage to keep Blissfest’s friendly feel intact over three decades, though more than 5,000 people now attend every year.

MORNING MUSIC

Early mornings at Blissfest are a unique experience, with a mix of on-site campers blearyeyed and heading for the solar showers as the sun rises, and “regular folk” just arriving for the day (passes can be purchased by the day or entire weekend). The breakfast vendors are popular stops with such fare as breakfast burritos eaten under breezy tents, as are the morning workshops for activities like yoga. And once the music starts, the crowd stakes out spaces with colorful tie-dyed blankets and lawn chairs as this mini-Woodstock gets its weekend started.

“We have over 50 acts to choose from this year,” said Blissfest Executive Director Jim Gillespie. So pace yourself, as there’s going to be a lot to hear.

BLISSTIP:

Most of Blissfest takes place in the middle of a field, so the weather plays a big factor. When it gets hot, it gets really hot, so drink plenty of water and seek shade. And when it rains, it’s a mud bog, so bring rain boots or be prepared to go barefoot.

AFTERNOON AMPS

Afternoons are a great mix. There’s a lot going on and a lot to see, beginning with the live performances on all three stages. The food vendors are going strong with a diverse menu to try (don’t miss the Gyros, a hit every year). Workshops and drum circles give festival attendees a chance to try various activities, and the craft and healing arts vendors offer an eclectic range of things to buy, from jewelry and clothing to goat’s milk soaps and other knick-knacks. Afternoon is also the time to check out emerging artists: a few of note this year are Chicago’s Way Down Wanderers, Scandinavian folk artists Freya, and Mackinac Island-based Less is More, plus returning local favorites like E Minor, The Pistil Whips, Michelle Chenard, and Seth and May.

BLISSTIP:

This Blissfest’s emerging artist could be next year’s headliner or your new favorite band, so jot down the music you like as you hear it, and find them online after the fest. The Bliss on-site store also offers a selection of CDs from the fest’s lineup of musicians.

EVENING EARDRUMS

The evening is when Blissfest really heats up. In addition to the traditional country and square dances, headliners like Arrested Development, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, and Taj Mahal have appeared on the Blissfest main stage. This year’s headliner is legendary protest singer Arlo Guthrie.

“Guthrie’s 50th anniversary Alice’s Restaurant Tour is stopping at Blissfest Friday night, which also happens to be his 68th birthday!” Gillespie said. But the names don’t stop there. You’ll also hear live sets from Time Magazine “Band to Watch” Ages and Ages; Gangstagrass, the fusion band that crafted the theme for the FX TV series Justified (“it’s bluegrass mixed with rap – and it really works!” confirmed Gillespie); Ghanian reggae singer Rocky Dawuni; barnstorming country music standouts The Defibulators; and the world ska of Ignorant Mob. Grab a schedule when you arrive; you’ll need it so you don’t miss a thing.

BLISSTIP:

Bring along some glow sticks or glow bracelets to wear during the evening performances and dances, and become part of the unforgettable glimmering scene that is so distinctively “Blissfest after dark.” This adds to your photo opportunities, too.

The 2015 Blissfest will take place in Cross Village at the Bliss Festival Farm, 3695 Division Road, on July 10-12 2015. For ticket outlets, schedules, and more info, visit blissfest.org.