August 5, 2011. We parked near the library and walked down the hill toward the Hotel Bethlehem and found Drew Nugent & The Midnight Society band. They were not only playing great music, but they were dancing as well.
The versatile band leader was the trumpet player, DJ, vocalist and he also played the piano-flute.
The musicians were very talented. The solos by the trombone player and the sax player were excellent, but I especially liked the sound coming from that vintage bass saxophone.
The period dress looked great and I think the drummer had the coolest hat.
The band took to the street in a mini-parade and some in the crowd were dancing.
We strolled up Main street and Paddy posed with the "Miles of Mules" sculpture. We check out the street vendors including the cigar maker and the Tarot Readers outside of Main Street stores.
A half block north from the Hotel Bethlehem was Ben Mauger's Vintage Jazz Band playing on the Main Street Stage. There was a large crowd of listeners present, so we joined them. The band was most entertaining.
Before heading to the lower level of Musikfest we passed the outdoor beer section of the Hotel Bethlehem and the lines were long. Down at the lower level, food was everywhere.
At the arts and crafts area, many were waiting for the demonstration of the "Cast in Bronze" bells.
There were a few rides in the craft area, and the crafters were doing a brisk business.
At the Festplatz tent, where we used to hear polka bands, we we now treated to Funk. I had a knockworst sandwich at Karl Ehmer and we strolled over to Plaza Tropical. Along the way we found a photographer selling $5 photos of families in a big chair, pretty cool idea.
About this time we noticed dark clouds off in the distance and a flash of lightning. We decided to head for the car. Near the car a light rain started and as soon as we closed the car doors, the Monsoon rains came. On Sunday I saw an internet article about the damage and financial loss that took place at Musikfest. Such a shame with all that planning and good will that takes place every year.
Click HERE to view our 2009 visit to MUSIKFEST