Roots N Blues N BBQ Festival

Roots N Blues N BBQ Festival is a premier music and food festival held annually in Columbia, Missouri, featuring a diverse range of artists, including B.B. King, Eric Clapton, and Sheryl Crow. The festival has become a staple of the city's cultural scene, attracting visitors from across the United States, including fans of St. Louis Blues, Kansas City BBQ, and Memphis-style barbecue. With its unique blend of music, food, and community, the festival has been compared to other notable events, such as New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Austin City Limits Music Festival, and Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival. The festival's success has also been recognized by organizations like National Blues Foundation, American Blues Scene, and Kansas City Barbeque Society.

● History

The Roots N Blues N BBQ Festival was founded in 2007 by a group of local music enthusiasts, including Richard King, Thom Westphal, and Steve Powell, who were inspired by the rich musical heritage of the region, including the Delta Blues tradition and the Kansas City jazz scene. The festival's early years featured performances by notable artists, such as Delbert McClinton, Marcia Ball, and Tab Benoit, and was supported by local businesses, including The Blue Note, The Bridge, and Shakespeare's Pizza. As the festival grew in popularity, it began to attract visitors from across the country, including fans of Chicago Blues, Texas Blues, and Louisiana Creole cuisine. The festival has also been influenced by other regional events, such as Crossroads Guitar Festival, Telluride Blues & Brews Festival, and Memphis in May.

● Festival_Overview

The Roots N Blues N BBQ Festival typically takes place over three days in September, featuring multiple stages and a wide range of activities, including music performances, food vendors, and interactive exhibits. The festival has hosted notable performers, such as John Mayer, Dave Matthews Band, and The Avett Brothers, and has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability and community engagement, earning awards from organizations like Keep America Beautiful, Sustainable Columbia, and Columbia Chamber of Commerce. The festival's layout and design have been influenced by other notable events, such as Lollapalooza, Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, and South by Southwest. The festival has also partnered with local organizations, including University of Missouri, Columbia Public Schools, and Boone County Historical Society.

● Lineup_and_Performers

The Roots N Blues N BBQ Festival has featured a diverse range of performers over the years, including Blues Traveler, The Black Crowes, and Jason Isbell, as well as local and regional artists, such as The Bel Airs, The Ozark Mountain Daredevils, and The Bottle Rockets. The festival's lineup has been curated by a team of music experts, including Bill Payne, Garry West, and Janet Kessler, who have worked to create a unique and engaging musical experience, showcasing a range of genres, from Rock and Roll to Folk music and Soul music. The festival has also hosted performances by notable musicians, such as Taj Mahal, Keb' Mo', and Ruthie Foster, and has been recognized for its support of emerging artists, including The Lumineers, The Head and the Heart, and First Aid Kit.

● Activities_and_Food

In addition to its music performances, the Roots N Blues N BBQ Festival features a wide range of activities and food options, including BBQ cook-offs, Craft beer tastings, and interactive exhibits, such as The Blues Foundation's "Blues Hall of Fame" and The Kansas City Barbeque Society's "BBQ University". The festival's food vendors offer a diverse range of cuisine, including Kansas City-style barbecue, Memphis-style barbecue, and Texas-style barbecue, as well as traditional festival fare, such as Funnel cakes, Corn dogs, and Lemonade. The festival has also partnered with local restaurants, including The Broadway Diner, Main Squeeze Natural Foods Cafe, and Flat Branch Brewing Company, to offer a range of dining options. The festival's activities have been influenced by other notable events, such as Taste of Chicago, Austin Food + Wine Festival, and New Orleans Food and Wine Experience.

● Organization_and_Impact

The Roots N Blues N BBQ Festival is organized by a team of local volunteers and staff, including Thom Westphal, Richard King, and Betsy Farris, who work to create a unique and engaging festival experience, while also supporting local businesses and organizations, such as The Columbia Daily Tribune, KOMU-TV, and KBIA. The festival has had a significant impact on the local economy, generating revenue for local businesses and organizations, including The City of Columbia, Boone County, and The University of Missouri. The festival has also been recognized for its commitment to sustainability and community engagement, earning awards from organizations like Keep Missouri Beautiful, Sustainable Missouri, and Missouri Arts Council. The festival has also partnered with local organizations, including United Way of Central Missouri, Columbia Community Foundation, and Boone County Community Services, to support local initiatives and charitable causes.