PICKENS — History and heritage was celebrated in Pickens for the annual Founder’s Day Music Festival held in the amphitheater of historic downtown Pickens last Saturday afternoon.
Bluegrass music could be heard echoing throughout the streets as residents set up lawn chairs, perched on the cement risers or just laid out in the grass for an afternoon of mingling with friends, relaxation and maybe a bite to eat from one of the food vendors that were set up at the top of the hill.
DejaBlue Grass, Sweet Potato Pie Kids, Volume Five and New Dixie Storm started things off followed by the East Tennessee State University Bluegrass Pride Band, North Greenville University Bluegrass Band and the Old Time Medicine Show.
“They haven’t been doing this festival for very long but I think it’s one of the nicer ones,” said Maise Looper. “Azalea Fest is nice, but it’s so busy. I think that’s more for the kids. Out here you can just sit, relax and listen to the music.”
Looper’s husband, Kerry, echoed his wife’s sentiments but added one more thing: “As long as she doesn’t want to dance,” he said.
A couple of toddler-aged kids got up and moved to the music, but for the most part, the people in the amphitheater seemed content to just have a lazy day in the park.
The event marked the unofficial close for another successful season of outdoor attractions and events on Main Street.
